Simplify the radical expression: sqrt (9a3) + sqrt (a): I applied property #1, which separates the first term out into perfect squares:   3a (sqrt)a + (sqrt)a. The answer key says (3a+1)(sqrt)a, but I'm unsure of where the "+1" comes from, and why the (sqrt)a is not squared and then caneled out by the radical sign into just "a." Is the (sqrt)a in the answer a combination of like terms "(sqrt)a" from what was remaining after the first term was split into perfect squares, combined with the second term's (sqrt)a?

Elementary Algebra
17th Edition
ISBN:9780998625713
Author:Lynn Marecek, MaryAnne Anthony-Smith
Publisher:Lynn Marecek, MaryAnne Anthony-Smith
Chapter9: Roots And Radicals
Section9.3: Add And Subtract Square Roots
Problem 230E: Suzy wants to use square tiles on the border of a spa she is installing in her backyard. She will...
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Simplify the radical expression:

sqrt (9a3) + sqrt (a):

I applied property #1, which separates the first term out into perfect squares:

 

3a (sqrt)a + (sqrt)a. The answer key says (3a+1)(sqrt)a, but I'm unsure of where the "+1" comes from, and why the (sqrt)a is not squared and then caneled out by the radical sign into just "a." Is the (sqrt)a in the answer a combination of like terms "(sqrt)a" from what was remaining after the first term was split into perfect squares, combined with the second term's (sqrt)a?

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