If 0 < x < 1 and y > 1, [√{x + y - 2√(xy)} + √{x + y + 2√(xy)}] =
(A) √x
(B) 2√x
(C) √y + √x
(D) √y
(E) 2√y
OA E
(A) √x
(B) 2√x
(C) √y + √x
(D) √y
(E) 2√y
OA E
BREAKING: Target Test Prep releases Brand New 2026 On Demand GMAT prep course
RedeemTarget Test Prep · GMAT
Learn live with an expert or move at your own pace. Every option includes the complete TTP study system.

with Chris Peckover

with Logan Thompson
Complete access from day one. Study on your schedule.
Compare the format, schedule, and included access before enrolling. Prices and seat counts shown reflect the supplied offer details.
An efficient approach for such questions is by plugging in smart values for x and y.jack0997 wrote:If 0 < x < 1 and y > 1, [√{x + y - 2√(xy)} + √{x + y + 2√(xy)}] =
(A) √x
(B) 2√x
(C) √y + √x
(D) √y
(E) 2√y
OA E
Thank you, Jay. It was helpful. Could you pl. tell me the algebraic route?Jay@ManhattanReview wrote:An efficient approach for such questions is by plugging in smart values for x and y.jack0997 wrote:If 0 < x < 1 and y > 1, [√{x + y - 2√(xy)} + √{x + y + 2√(xy)}] =
(A) √x
(B) 2√x
(C) √y + √x
(D) √y
(E) 2√y
OA E
Since we have to deal with √xy, the values chosen for x and y must be such that √xy is not an ugly number.
Say x = 1/4 and y =4. This makes √xy = √(1/4)*4 = √1 = 1. This works.
Just plug-in these values and check which option renders the correct answer.
Hope this helps!
Download free ebook: Manhattan Review GMAT Quantitative Question Bank Guide
-Jay
_________________
Manhattan Review GMAT Prep
Locations: New York | Bangkok | Abu Dhabi | Rome | and many more...
Schedule your free consultation with an experienced GMAT Prep Advisor! Click here.
Well, I would not suggest you the Algebraic route; however, for the sake of your interest, here it is.jack0997 wrote:Thank you, Jay. It was helpful. Could you pl. tell me the algebraic route?Jay@ManhattanReview wrote:An efficient approach for such questions is by plugging in smart values for x and y.jack0997 wrote:If 0 < x < 1 and y > 1, [√{x + y - 2√(xy)} + √{x + y + 2√(xy)}] =
(A) √x
(B) 2√x
(C) √y + √x
(D) √y
(E) 2√y
OA E
Since we have to deal with √xy, the values chosen for x and y must be such that √xy is not an ugly number.
Say x = 1/4 and y =4. This makes √xy = √(1/4)*4 = √1 = 1. This works.
Just plug-in these values and check which option renders the correct answer.
Hope this helps!
Download free ebook: Manhattan Review GMAT Quantitative Question Bank Guide
-Jay
_________________
Manhattan Review GMAT Prep
Locations: New York | Bangkok | Abu Dhabi | Rome | and many more...
Schedule your free consultation with an experienced GMAT Prep Advisor! Click here.
New here Create free account