rationalize
v.v. to explain something in a logical way, or to make a situation seem reasonable even if it is not. In math, it means removing a square root or other radical from the bottom of a fraction.
v. to provide a logical explanation for a situation or to justify a belief or action. In a mathematical context, it refers to the process of removing a radical from the denominator of a fraction by multiplying the numerator and denominator by the same radical.
The company tried to rationalize the high prices by saying they were necessary for quality.
To rationalize the denominator of the fraction, you multiply both the top and bottom by the square root of two.
The government attempted to rationalize the sudden increase in fuel taxes by citing the need for infrastructure development and environmental protection.