Lesson 3 Summary

 

In this lesson you explored solving radical equations graphically. The solutions, or roots, of a radical equation are equivalent to the x-intercepts of the corresponding radical function. Two graphical methods were discussed.

 

Using a single function:

• Rearrange the equation so that one side is equal to zero, and then graph the function. The solution is found by determining the value of the x-intercept(s).

• The solution of the equation is x ≈ 1.73.
  
  
   
  
  
  
• The solution for the equation is 1.73.

Using a system of two functions:

• Graph each side of the equation as two separate functions. The solution is determined by the value of x at the point(s) of intersection.

• The solution of the equation is x ≈ 1.73.
  
  
   
  

Radical equations that are used in various contexts, such as accelerated motion, can be solved using a graphical method.