Roots (numbers versus variables)

[kim0928]

In Guide 2: Algebra (pg. 71), the direction is "If a given equation contains a square root symbol on the GMAT, only use the positive root. If an equation contains a squared variable, and you take the square root, use both the positive and negative solutions." This make sense. Then, in the solutions to Chapter 5, there is a note that says "On the GMAT, when given a square root symbol with a number beneath, you are supposed to take only the positive root. This restriction does not apply when given exponents." Does the original rule apply only to number for the GMAT (versus variables)?

[tim]

The distinction lies entirely in whether the GMAT provided the square root sign (take only the positive value) or you drew the square root sign in yourself (take both positive and negative values). Does this clear up your concern? If not, please describe in more detail what the issue is and we'll be glad to help further.

[RonPurewal]

if you have more questions about this topic, please post them in the correct folder ("General Math Questions").

this folder is for problems from the FREE GMAT PREP SOFTWARE only.

thanks.