Solve Square Root: Simplifying √(144/36) Step by Step

Yes, this works because $\sqrt{\frac{a}{b}} = \frac{\sqrt{a}}{\sqrt{b}}$, but it's harder! You get $\frac{\sqrt{144}}{\sqrt{36}} = \frac{12}{6} = 2$. It's much easier to simplify the fraction first.

Look for common factors! Both 144 and 36 are divisible by 36, so $\frac{144}{36} = \frac{144 ÷ 36}{36 ÷ 36} = \frac{4}{1} = 4$.

Then you can't simplify the square root to a whole number! For example, $\sqrt{\frac{3}{4}} = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{2}$ stays as a radical expression.

The square root symbol $\sqrt{}$ always means the positive square root! While both 2 and -2 square to give 4, $\sqrt{4}$ specifically means the positive answer.

Not necessary! This problem uses perfect squares (144 = 12² and 36 = 6²), so you can solve it mentally. Practice recognizing perfect squares to work faster!