Question

Complete the square of x^2-2x+17

Answer 1

(x - 1)² + 16

Explanation:

• x² - 2x + 17 = 0

Subtract 17 from both sides of the equation.

• x² - 2x = -17

Use the formula (b/2)² to see which number you have to add to both sides.

• (-2/2)² = 1

Add 1 to both sides of the equation.

• x² - 2x + 1 = -17 + 1

Factor the left side of the equation into a perfect square.

• (x - 1)² = -16

Add 16 to both sides of the equation.

• (x - 1)² + 16

(x - 1)² + 16 is the equation in standard form (x² - 2x + 17) rewritten by completing the square.