In order to to add or subtract radicals together, they must be like radicals; in other words, they must have the EXACT same radicand and index. This is the main reason why we must simplify them.
If you are asked to add or subtract radicals that have different radicands, don't panic. Try to simplify the radicals-->that usually does the trick.
Remember:
Only LIKE radicals can be added or subtracted from one another.
Why is it important to simplify radical expressions before adding or subtracting?
1 answer