How do you solve sqrt (m) + 7 = 5?

1 Answer
Sep 11, 2015

Using the non-primary root, it could be argued that m=4

Explanation:

sqrt(m)+7=5

rArr sqrt(m) = -2

Since the primary square root is positive
this has no Real solution using the primary root.

However if we allow secondary roots:
color(white)("XXX")square root of m = +-sqrt(m)
and
for m=4,
color(white)("XXX")one solution is
color(white)("XXX")square root of m = -sqrt(4) = -2

The most likely, expected answer is that the given equation has no valid solution (in RR)