Easy Algebra Step-by-Step

164 Easy Algebra Step-by-Step

Problem Solve x^2 = 7.

Solution

Step 1. Solve for x^2.

Step 2. Because both sides are nonnegative, take the square root of both

sides.

x^2 = 7

Step 3. Simplify and write the solution.

x= 7

Thus, x= 7 or x=− 7.

As you gain more experience, the solution

of an equation such as xk^2 k,,kkkk≥≥ 00 can be

considerably shortened if you remember that xx^2 and apply that idea

mentally. You can write the solution immediately as xk.

Problem Solve x^2 − 606.

Solution

Step 1. Solve for x^2 to obtain the form for a quick solution.

x^2 = 6

Step 2. Write the solution.

The solution is x=± 6.

Problem Solve 34 x^28.

Solution

Step 1. Solve for x^2 to obtain the form for a quick solution.

x^2 = 16

Step 2. Write the solution.

The solution is x=±^4.

Recall that the principal square root is always

nonnegative and the equation xx^2 was

discussed at length in Chapter 3.

A solution such as x= 7 or x=− 7 is

usually written x=± 7.