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Solving simple quadratics review

Simple quadratic equations like x^2=4 can be solved by taking the square root. This article reviews several examples and gives you a chance to practice on your own.
In general, a quadratic equation can be written as:
ax2+bx+c=0
In this article, we review how to solve quadratics that are solvable by taking the square root—no fancy factoring or quadratic equations here; we'll get to that technique later.

Example 1

We're given 3x27=5 and asked to solve for x.
We can show our work like this:
3x27=53x2=12x2=4x2=±4x=±2
So our two solutions are:
  • x=2
  • x=2
Notice the ± symbol we included when taking the square root of both sides. This symbol means "plus or minus," and it is important because it ensures we catch both solutions. Want a deeper explanation? Check out this video.
Let's check both solutions:
x=2x=2
3x27=53(2)27=5347=5127=55=53x27=53(2)27=5347=5127=55=5
Yes! Both solutions check out.

Example 2

We're given (x3)281=0 and asked to solve for x.
We can show our work like this:
(x3)281=0(x3)2=81(x3)2=±81x3=±9x=±9+3
So our two solutions are:
  • x=+9+3=12
  • x=9+3=6
Let's check both solutions:
x=12x=6
(x3)281=0(123)281=09281=08181=00=0(x3)281=0(63)281=0(9)281=08181=00=0
Yep! Both check out.
Want to learn more about these types of problems? Check out this video.
Practice
Solve for x.
(x+1)236=0
Choose 1 answer:

Want more practice? Check out this exercise

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