Question

Find the zeros by completing the square. Show your work!

2x^2 - 12x + 13 = 0

Answer 1

Explanation:

2x^2 - 12x + 13 = 0

2x^2 - 12x = -13

2(x^2 - 6x) = -13

2[(x - 3)^2 - 9] = -13

2(x - 3)^2 - 18 = -3

2(x - 3)^2 = 5

(x - 3)^2 = 2.5

x - 3 = ±√2.5

x = 3 ±√2.5

which is

1.42, 4.58 to the nearest hundredth.