Question

Consider the following quadratic equation.

x^2– 8x + 2 = 6
To solve this equation by completing the square, the first step is shown below.
x^2 - 8x = 4
What is the second step in solving the given quadratic equation by completing the square?
A. x^2 - 8x + 64 = 68
B. x^2 - 8x + 16 = 20. C. x^2 - 8x + 4 = 8
D. x^2 - 8x + 8 = 12

Answer 1

B. x^2 - 8x + 16 = 20

Explanation:

x^2 - 8x = 4

Take half of the x-term coefficient and square it.

-8/2 = -4

(-4)² = 16

Now add 16 to both sides.

Answer: B. x^2 - 8x + 16 = 20