How do you add and multiply surds?

When you add and subtract surds, the numbers inside the square root must be the same. You add/ subtract the number outside the square root. e.g. 2√5 + 7√5 = 9√5, however 2√5 + 7√3 cannot be added. when you multiply and divide surds there is a different set of rules. If the 2 numbers inside the surd are the same, this creates a whole number. e.g √5 x √5 =5 if not, you multiply the numbers outside the surd together, the numbers inside the surd together and then simplify. e.g 3√5 x 6√3 = ~3x6= 18 ~ √(5x3) = √15 = 18√15 this is the same when dividing, first divide the whole numbers, then the surds.

GC
Answered by Grace C. Maths tutor

73502 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Solve the following inequality: 6x -3 > 3x + 9


How do I rearrange this equation for x? y=(x+2)/(3x-1) +2


Work out the solutions to the following quadratic equation: x² + 7x + 10 = 0 by factorising.


Find the minimum value of the quadratic equation: y = x^2 + 4x - 12


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning