Question

Use the completing the square method to transform the equation x2 + 2x = 13 into an equation of the form (x + a)2 = b, where ɑ and b are real numbers What are the values ​​of ɑ and b?

Answer 1

(x+1)² = 14

a = 1, b = 14

Explanation:

Given the equation, x² + 2x = 13

We are to use the completing the square method to express in the form

(x + a)² = b

x² + 2x = 13

Add the square of half of the coefficient of x to both sides

Coefficient of x = 2

Half of the coefficient of x = 2/2

Square of the result = (2/2)²

Square of the result = 1²

Add (1/2)² to both sides

x² + 2x + (1)² = 13 + (1)²

(x+1)² = 13 + 1

(x+1)² = 14

Compare with (x+a)² = b

a = 1 and b = 14