I am asked to simplify the following expression
(√x-√y)÷(√x+√y)

What are the rules on dividing radicals? ISO help.
Thanks in advance.

Multiplying the numerator and denominator by the radical will get rid of the radical in the denominator, leaving only what is under the radical in the denominator.


(√x)
-----
(√y)

Multiply top and bottom by √y

Leaves:

√xy
-----
y

I'm assuming this is what you mean?

But what about he bottom being that expression?

looks like you can use the difference of two perfect squares

Isn't that for factoring and multiplication?

is that bad?

With respect to your original equation, just use what I mentioned earlier but multiply by the conjugate of the denominator.

So I'll get x + y on the denominator. Then do I F.O.I.L. The top?

Accuse one of them of being racist or sexist.

Is the answer

x-y
-----
x+y

?

If yes, then I understand.