Question

x^1/2 - (x-5)^1/2 = 2 help? i know that the answer is 9 i just dont know how to get there

Answer 1

Try getting one of those square root "thingys" by itself. Then square both sides. You should only have one square root "thingy" left. You get that one by itself, then square again. No more square root "thingys". :) Then solve for x.

Answer 2

Don't forget to check your answer. Since you raise both sides to even power, you will have to do this. Your result may not be a solution. In that case, you will say no solution.

Answer 3

Also how did you get 9? replace x with 9 in the original equation, the equation does not hold for x=9. 9 is incorrect.