Introductory Algebra for College Students (7th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-13417-805-X
ISBN 13: 978-0-13417-805-9

Chapter 9 - Section 9.2 - Solving Quadratic Equations by Completing the Square - Exercise Set - Page 638: 18

Answer

$ \lbrace0.58, 3.14\rbrace$

Work Step by Step

Let us consider the quadratic equation $x^{2}-4x=-2.$\\ To complete the square on the binomial $x^{2}-4x$, we take half of $-4$, which is $-2$ and square $-2$ giving $4$. We add $4$ to both sides of the equation. This makes the left side a perfect square binomial. Then \begin{align*} x^{2}-4x+4=-2+4. \end{align*} Rearranging left hand side, we get \begin{align*} x^{2}-2 \cdot x \cdot 2+2^{2}=2. \end{align*} The left side of above is in form of $a^{2}-2ab+b^{2}$, \begin{align*} (x-2)^{2}=2. \end{align*} According to square root property, \begin{align*} x-2&=\pm\sqrt{2}\\ x-2&=\sqrt{2} \ \ \text{or} \ \ x-2=-\sqrt{2}\\ x&=2+\sqrt{2}\ \ \text{or} \ \ x=2-\sqrt{2}. \end{align*} Hence, the solution are $3.41$ and $0.58$. The solution set is $ \lbrace0.58, 3.14\rbrace$
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.