Question

The dimensions of the computer screen are modeled by the equation x2 + (x – 4)2 = 202. What is the value of x, the length of the screen?

Answer 1

x = 11.85

Explanation:

x^2+(x-4)^2=202

x^2+(x-4)(x-4)=202

x^2 + x^2 - 4x - 4x + 16 = 202

2x^2 - 8x + 16 = 202

2x^2 - 8x - 186 = 0

Apply the quadratic equation and you'll get x as:

x=11.85 or x=-7.85

x cannot be negative

therefore x = 11.85