Question
e the imaginary number \( i \) to rewrite the expression below as a complex number. Simplify radicals. \( -\sqrt{-51} \)
Ask by Greene Watkins. in the United States
Jan 24,2025
Real Tutor Solution
Tutor-Verified Answer
Answer
\( -\sqrt{51}\,i \)
Solution
To rewrite the expression \( -\sqrt{-51} \) as a complex number, we can use the imaginary unit \( i \), where \( i = \sqrt{-1} \).
1. **Express the Square Root of a Negative Number:**
\[
\sqrt{-51} = \sqrt{51 \cdot (-1)} = \sqrt{51} \cdot \sqrt{-1} = \sqrt{51} \cdot i
\]
2. **Apply the Negative Sign:**
\[
-\sqrt{-51} = -\sqrt{51} \cdot i
\]
3. **Simplify the Radical (if possible):**
Check if \( 51 \) has any perfect square factors:
\[
51 = 3 \times 17
\]
Since neither \( 3 \) nor \( 17 \) are perfect squares, \( \sqrt{51} \) cannot be simplified further.
4. **Final Answer:**
\[
-\sqrt{51}\,i
\]
**Answer:** \( -\,\sqrt{51}\;i \)
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Mind Expander
To rewrite the expression \( -\sqrt{-51} \) as a complex number, we can utilize the imaginary unit \( i \), where \( i = \sqrt{-1} \). First, we recognize that \( -\sqrt{-51} = -\sqrt{51} \cdot \sqrt{-1} \). This allows us to express the square root of a negative number in terms of \( i \). Thus, we have: \[ -\sqrt{-51} = -\sqrt{51} \cdot i = -i\sqrt{51}. \] So the simplified expression in complex form is: \[ -i\sqrt{51}. \]