## ASVAB Arithmetic Reasoning Practice Test 990696

 Questions 5 Topics Absolute Value, Multiplying & Dividing Radicals, Practice, Simplifying Radicals

#### Study Guide

###### Absolute Value

The absolute value is the positive magnitude of a particular number or variable and is indicated by two vertical lines: $$\left|-5\right| = 5$$. In the case of a variable absolute value ($$\left|a\right| = 5$$) the value of a can be either positive or negative (a = -5 or a = 5).

To multiply or divide radicals, multiply or divide the coefficients and radicands separately: $$x\sqrt{a} \times y\sqrt{b} = xy\sqrt{ab}$$ and $${x\sqrt{a} \over y\sqrt{b}} = {x \over y}\sqrt{a \over b}$$
The radicand of a simplified radical has no perfect square factors. A perfect square is the product of a number multiplied by itself (squared). To simplify a radical, factor out the perfect squares by recognizing that $$\sqrt{a^2} = a$$. For example, $$\sqrt{64} = \sqrt{16 \times 4} = \sqrt{4^2 \times 2^2} = 4 \times 2 = 8$$.