Let \(x=\sqrt{2}+\sqrt{3}\). Which classification of \(x\) and \(x^2\) is correct?

Correct answer: \(x\) is irrational and \(x^2\) is irrational

\(x^2=(\sqrt{2}+\sqrt{3})^2=5+2\sqrt{6}\). Since \(\sqrt{6}\) is irrational, \(5+2\sqrt{6}\) is also irrational. Hence, \(x^2\) is irrational. If \(x\) were rational, then \(x^2\) would have to be rational, which is a contradiction. Therefore, \(x\) is also irrational. Option B is the closest distractor, but \(x^2\) is not rational. Exam tip: To test whether a number can be rational, use the fact that the square of every rational number is rational.