Mathematical Reasoning: Finding the Largest Value in a Set

Square Root Comparisons with Simplified Fractions

Choose the largest value

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:02 First, let's pick the largest value among the options.
00:06 Next, we'll find the ratio of each mathematical expression.
00:10 Then, apply this method to each expression and find the biggest one.
00:16 Remember, a higher number under the root sign means a larger value.
00:21 So, let's identify the largest number overall.
00:25 And that's how we solve this problem!

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

Choose the largest value

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Step-by-step solution

To solve this problem, we'll follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Calculate the value of each expression under the square root.
  • Step 2: Simplify the square roots to find their numerical values.
  • Step 3: Compare the results to find the largest value.

Now, let's work through each step:

Step 1: Calculate the values under each square root.

  • For choice 1: 255=5 \frac{25}{5} = 5
  • For choice 2: 366=6 \frac{36}{6} = 6
  • For choice 3: 369=4 \frac{36}{9} = 4
  • For choice 4: 84=2 \frac{8}{4} = 2

Step 2: Compute the square roots.

  • Choice 1: 52.236 \sqrt{5} \approx 2.236
  • Choice 2: 62.449 \sqrt{6} \approx 2.449
  • Choice 3: 4=2 \sqrt{4} = 2
  • Choice 4: 21.414 \sqrt{2} \approx 1.414

Step 3: Compare the square roots calculated.

The largest value among the choices is found in choice 2:

366=62.449 \sqrt{\frac{36}{6}} = \sqrt{6} \approx 2.449 is larger than the other evaluated square roots.

Therefore, the largest value is given by the expression 366 \sqrt{\frac{36}{6}} .

3

Final Answer

366 \sqrt{\frac{36}{6}}

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Strategy: First simplify the fraction inside each square root
  • Technique: Compare 62.449 \sqrt{6} \approx 2.449 vs 52.236 \sqrt{5} \approx 2.236
  • Check: Verify by calculating each fraction: 36÷6=6, 25÷5=5, 36÷9=4, 8÷4=2 ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Comparing fractions without simplifying first
    Don't compare 366 \frac{36}{6} vs 255 \frac{25}{5} by looking at numerators and denominators = wrong ordering! This ignores that 36÷6=6 while 25÷5=5. Always simplify each fraction first, then take square roots.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

Solve the following exercise:

\( \sqrt{\frac{2}{4}}= \)

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why can't I just compare the numerators to find the largest?

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Because the denominators are different! For example, 369=4 \frac{36}{9} = 4 even though 36 is large. You must divide first to get the true value under the square root.

Do I need to memorize square roots like √6?

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No! You can use a calculator for approximations. But knowing perfect squares like 4=2 \sqrt{4} = 2 and 9=3 \sqrt{9} = 3 helps you work faster.

What if two fractions simplify to the same number?

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Then their square roots would be equal, making them tied for largest. Always check your division carefully to avoid this mistake!

Can I compare square roots without calculating decimals?

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Yes! Since square root is an increasing function, if a>b a > b , then a>b \sqrt{a} > \sqrt{b} . So compare the simplified fractions first.

What's the fastest way to solve this type of problem?

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Follow this order: 1) Simplify each fraction, 2) Identify which simplified value is largest, 3) That corresponds to the largest square root. No decimals needed!

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