Question

Express x^2 -8x+5 in the form (x-a)^2 -b where a and b are integers

Answer 1

(x - 4)² - 11

Explanation:

Given

x² - 8x + 5

Using the method of completing the square

add/subtract ( half the coefficient of the x- term )² to x² - 8x

= x² + 2(- 4)x + 16 - 16 + 5

= (x - 4)² - 11