Evaluate an exact fractional square root: Compute √(36.1 / 102.4) and express it as a simplified fraction.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 19/32

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Converting decimals to exact fractional forms often reveals perfect-square structure. Here, we simplify inside the radical first, then take the square root.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Expression: √(36.1 / 102.4).
  • Decimals are exact terminating decimals convertible to fractions.

Concept / Approach:
Multiply numerator and denominator to remove decimals and look for squares. Note that 36.1/102.4 = 361/1024 after scaling by a factor of 10 in numerator and denominator.


Step-by-Step Solution:

36.1/102.4 = (361/10) / (1024/10) = 361/1024.Now √(361/1024) = √361 / √1024.√361 = 19, √1024 = 32.Therefore, value = 19/32.

Verification / Alternative check:
Compute (19/32)^2 = 361/1024 = 36.1/102.4, confirming exactness.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 29/32 and 29/62 have incorrect numerators/denominators.
  • 19/72 does not square to 361/1024.
  • “None of these” is not needed since 19/32 appears.

Common Pitfalls:
Mis-scaling decimals or taking the square root of 1024 wrongly. Remember 1024 = 2^10, so √1024 = 32.


Final Answer:
19/32

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion