Algebra II Recipe: Solving Quadratic Equations by Finding Square Roots

A. Steps

1. Isolate "x²" by using inverse operations.
2. Square root both sides to isolate "x".
3. Give the positive and negative answer.

B. Simplifying a Radical that Is Not a Perfect Square

1. Find the largest perfect square factor and the other factor - both factors go under radical signs.
2. Square root the perfect square factor.
3. Leave the other factor under its radical sign.

Practice Problems