Question

Use the method of completing the square to solve x2 - 6x + 1 = 0. Simplify your solutions.

Correct work and method must be shown to receive credit for a correct answer.

Answer 1

`x = 3 + 2√(2) ~~~ or ~~~ x = 3 - 2√(2)`

Explanation:

`x^2 - 6x + 1 = 0`

`x^2 - 6x = -1`

`x^2 - 6x + 9 = -1 + 9`

`(x - 3)^2 = 8`

`x - 3 = \pm √(8)`

`x - 3 = 2√(2) ~~~ or ~~~ x - 3 = -2√(2)`

`x = 3 + 2√(2) ~~~ or ~~~ x = 3 - 2√(2)`