Final answer:
Option (B), When working with radicals in multiplication or division, one should simplify the radicals separately first. This involves handling the radical parts independently before combining them with non-radicals.
Step-by-step explanation:
When multiplying or dividing expressions with radicals and non-radicals, the correct step is not to ignore the radicals, distribute the radical across terms, or combine like terms first. Instead, you should simplify radicals separately. This means that you will handle the radical parts of the expression independently from the non-radical parts before combining them through multiplication or division.
Simplifying radicals may involve reducing the radical to its simplest form or rationalizing the denominator of a fraction. After simplifying the expressions with radicals, you can then proceed to eliminate terms wherever possible to simplify the algebra further. Finally, once you have simplified the expression and performed the multiplication or division, you should check the answer to ensure that it is reasonable.
For example, when multiplying fractions involving radicals, you multiply the numerators and the denominators separately, simplifying by common factors as needed. If you are dealing with exponents along with radicals, you must follow the rules of exponents, such as subtracting exponents when dividing exponential terms. Always ensure that your units cancel out correctly, as this can help verify that you have performed the operations correctly.