Lesson 3
1. Lesson 3
Module 2: Radical Functions
Lesson 3: Solving Radical Equations Graphically
Focus
Objects that are moving with accelerated motion can be described using radical equations. It is common to find objects with an accelerated motion used in many sports. One such sport is lacrosse, Canada’s official summer sport.

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Lacrosse originated in North America, and there are now professional and amateur leagues across Canada. Today, lacrosse is played both indoors and outdoors by men’s and women’s teams.
In lacrosse, a stick with a net at one end is used to throw a hard rubber ball. You can use radical equations to determine the velocity, distance, or acceleration of the ball when thrown.
Previously in this module, you graphed radical functions. How can graphs of radical functions be used to help determine the solution to radical equations?
Lesson Outcome
At the end of this lesson you will be able to determine graphically an approximate solution to a radical equation.
Lesson Question
In this lesson you will investigate the following question:
- How can you determine the solution to a radical equation using graphs?
Assessment
Your assessment may be based on a combination of the following tasks:
- completion of the Lesson 3 Assignment (Download the Lesson 3 Assignment and save it in your course folder now.)
- course folder submissions from Try This and Share activities
- additions to Glossary Terms and Formula Sheet
- work under Project Connection