Question

Solve (x – 3)2 = 49. Select the values of x.

Answer 1

55/2 or 27.5

Explanation:

2(x-3) = 49

2x - 6 = 49

Collect like terms

2x = 49 + 6

2x = 55

Divide both sides by the coefficient of x

2x/2 =55/2

x = 55/2 or 27.5

Answer 2

We can start with distribution:

(x - 3)2 = 49 → 2x - 6 = 49

Now to add 6 to both sides:

2x - 6 = 49 → 2x = 55

Finally, we divide both sides by 2:

x = 55/2 OR 27.5