Rationalise the denominator of 1/(4 + sqrt(3))

This denominator is irrational because it contains a surd. To rationalise the denominator we multiply the numerator and denominator by the conjugate of the denominator. In this case, the conjugate of the denominator is 4-sqrt(3)Therefore we get 1/(4 + sqrt(3)) * (4 - sqrt(3))/(4 - sqrt(3)). This simplifies to: (4 - sqrt(3))/(16 + 4sqrt(3) - 4sqrt(3) -3) and therefore: (4 - sqrt(3))/13

GM
Answered by Giles M. Maths tutor

7428 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Expand and simplify (x+6)(x+4)


Solve the next innequation: 12x-4>4x+12


If a train leaves for a 130 mile journey at 1.30pm, and travels at a constant speed of 50 miles per hour, at what time will it arrive?


f(x) = 5 – x and g(x) = 3x + 7 (a) Simplify f(2x) + g(x – 1)


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