Question

Evaluate the expression when \(x=2, y=3\), and \(z=5$$\sqrt{2 x y^{4} z^{2}}\)

Short answer

The evaluated expression is 90.

Step-by-step solution

Substitute the given values

First, substitute the given values into the expression. So, the expression becomes \(\sqrt{2*2*3^{4}*5^{2}}\).

Simplify the expression in the square root

Next, simplify the expression inside the square root. This results in \(\sqrt{2*2*81*25}\), which becomes \(\sqrt{8100}\).

Calculate the square root

Lastly, calculate the square root of 8100, which is 90.

Key concepts

Substitution Method

Understanding the substitution method is crucial when working with algebraic expressions. It involves the replacement of variables with actual numerical values provided in the problem. A benefit of this method is that it enables us to simplify and evaluate expressions in a more straightforward manner.

For instance, if we have the expression \(\sqrt{2xy^4z^2}\) and are given the values \(x=2\), \(y=3\), and \(z=5\), we apply the substitution method by replacing the variables \(x\), \(y\), and \(z\) with these numbers. This step transforms our algebraic expression into a purely numerical one, which is easier to handle and closer to reaching a final solution:

\(\sqrt{2 \cdot 2 \cdot 3^4 \cdot 5^2}\).

Using the substitution method correctly is the first essential step in solving many algebra-related problems and exercises.

Algebraic Expressions

Algebraic expressions are mathematical phrases that can contain numbers, variables, and operation symbols. They are essential in representing real-world scenarios mathematically. In the given exercise, \(\sqrt{2xy^4z^2}\) is a complex algebraic expression, which includes variables and exponents within a square root.

To simplify this expression, we leverage our understanding of algebraic operations, such as multiplication, exponentiation, and understanding the properties of square roots. In context, once the substitution method has been applied, our task is to simplify the numerical expression inside the square root before computing its value:

\(\sqrt{2 \cdot 2 \cdot 81 \cdot 25}\) simplifies to \(\sqrt{8100}\), streamlining the path to find our final answer.

Square Roots

The concept of square roots is fundamental in both algebra and geometry. A square root of a number is a value that, when multiplied by itself, gives the original number. Square roots are denoted by the radical symbol \(\sqrt{}\).

In our exercise, after simplifying the inside of the square root, we arrive at \(\sqrt{8100}\). This step involves recognizing that 8100 is a perfect square, specifically \(90 \times 90\). Thus, the square root of 8100 is 90, providing us with the final simplified value of the original algebraic expression.

It is important to note that while dealing with square roots, students must be aware that some numbers do not have a neat square root, in which case approximation or further simplification might be needed. However, in this exercise, the elegance of a perfect square simplifies our work significantly.