Simplify the ratio of square roots: What is √288 / √128 equal to (in simplest form)?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 3/2

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Ratios of square roots can be simplified by combining under one radical and reducing the fraction before taking the square root.


Given Data / Assumptions:
Expression: √288 / √128.


Concept / Approach:
Use √a / √b = √(a/b). Reduce 288/128 to lowest terms first, then take the square root to avoid messy radicals.


Step-by-Step Solution:

√288 / √128 = √(288/128)288/128 = 2.25 = 9/4√(9/4) = 3/2


Verification / Alternative check:
Factor approach: 288 = 2^5 * 3^2; 128 = 2^7. Then √288 = 2^2 * 3 * √2 = 12√2; √128 = 2^3 * √2 = 8√2; ratio = (12√2)/(8√2) = 3/2.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
√3/2 and √6/2 retain radicals unnecessarily; 3/√2 is not equal to 3/2 here; 2/3 is the reciprocal.


Common Pitfalls:
Not simplifying the fraction under the radical or canceling √2 incorrectly.


Final Answer:
3/2

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