Question

How do you rationalize the denominator and simplify the answer for `2/(5+sqrt3`?

Answer 1

`1/11`( 5-`sqrt3`)

To rationalize the denominator, multiply the numerator as well as denominator by the conjugate of 5+`sqrt3`, which is 5-`sqrt3`.

`2/(5+sqrt3` * `(5-sqrt3`)/(5-`sqrt3)`

Since (5+`sqrt3`)(5-`sqrt3`) equals to (25-3)=22, we have the given fraction equal to `2/22` (5-`sqrt3)`

=`1/11` (5-`sqrt3`)