Rationalize the Denominator
Why do we do this, anyway?
\( \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}} * \frac{\sqrt{2}}{\sqrt{2}} = \frac{\sqrt{2}}{2} \)
\( \frac{1}{1+4i} * \frac{1-4i}{1-4i} = \frac{1-4i}{17}\)
We have calculators.
Is this really necessary?
Historical reasons?
Practice the process for later use?
I say we keep it in the Curriculum.
What do you think?
Today I was asked "why exactly do we have to rationalize the denominator?" and I have no good answer. it's just what we do. Thoughts?
— LeAnn Neel Romine (@LeAnnNR21) January 31, 2023
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