posted by Marysvoice

I am trying to define the different appraoches to solving quadratic equations. My book says using quadratic formula, completing the sqaure and factoring.

I thought completing the square would be by facotring? How are these two different?

1. drbob222

Completing the square is a variation, I suppose, of factoring. The idea is to make the number, which isn't factorable (is that a word?) into one that can be factored. For example,
X^2 + 4x + 4 can be factored into (x+2)^2. So if we had an equation, such as
X^2 + 4x + 3, we rearrange the equation to
X^2 + 4x + ..... = -3
Then we add 4 to both sides, like this,
X^2 + 4x + 4 = -3 + 4
Now the left side is a perfect square
(X + 2)^2 = +1
and we solve for X.

## Similar Questions

1. ### math,algebra

can someone help me out factor out this 0=16t^2-122t+180 i have so far this but the last one i am not sure 8(2t^2-14t + ?
2. ### Algebra2

Find the polynomials roots to each of the following problems: #1) x^2+3x+1 #2) x^2+4x+3=0 #3) -2x^2+4x-5 #3 is not an equation. Dod you omit "= 0" at the end?
3. ### Algebra

Which is the easiest way to figure a quadratic equation; graphing, quadratic formula, completing a square and factoring?
4. ### ALGEBRA--MAT 117

Quadratic equations can be solved by graphing, using the quadratic formula, completing the square, and factoring. What are the pros and cons of each of these methods?
5. ### ALGEBRA

Quadratic equations can be solved by graphing, using the quadratic formula, completing the square, and factoring. What are the pros and cons of each of these methods?
6. ### Algebra

I was given this answers to a problems I solved but I do not understand what she means hope you can help. Before attempting to solve this quadratic equation, determine how many solutions there will be for this quadratic equation. Explain …
7. ### Algebra

I was given this answers to a problems I solved but I do not understand what she means hope you can help. Before attempting to solve this quadratic equation, determine how many solutions there will be for this quadratic equation. Explain …
8. ### math 117

Quadratic equations may be solved by graphing, using the quadratic formula, completing the square, and factoring. What are the pros and cons of each of these methods?
9. ### algebra

Quadratic equations can be solved by graphing,using the quadratic formula, completing the square, and factoring. What are the pros and cons of the methods. when would each be appropriate?
10. ### Mat/117 DQ2

Quadratic equations may be solved by graphing, using the quadratic formula, completing the square, and factoring. What are the pros and cons of each of these methods?

More Similar Questions