To multiply radicals, what is the first action to take?

• A. Add the radicals together
• B. Multiply what is inside the square root
• C. Subtract the square root coefficients
• D. Multiply the coefficients and constants

Answer: (B)

When multiplying radicals, the first action to take is to multiply what is inside the square root. This is foundational to the process of radical multiplication. The property of square roots states that (\sqrt{a} \cdot \sqrt{b} = \sqrt{a \cdot b}). Therefore, when you are presented with two radical expressions, the initial step involves multiplying the quantities found under the square roots before simplifying the resulting expression, if possible.

This approach adheres to the rules of operations involving roots and ensures that the multiplication is performed correctly. After this multiplication is completed, further steps may include simplifying the result or multiplying any coefficients that may be present outside the radicals. Understanding this foundational step ensures a proper grasp on more complex operations involving radicals down the line.