Math Problem Statement

4x^2 + 1 = 0

Solution

The given equation is:

4x2+1=04x^2 + 1 = 0

Step 1: Rearrange the equation

Move the constant term 11 to the right-hand side:

4x2=14x^2 = -1

Step 2: Solve for x2x^2

Divide both sides by 44:

x2=14x^2 = -\frac{1}{4}

Step 3: Analyze the solution

The square of a real number cannot be negative. Since x2=14x^2 = -\frac{1}{4}, there are no real solutions.

Step 4: Complex solutions

If we allow complex numbers, take the square root of both sides:

x=±14x = \pm \sqrt{-\frac{1}{4}}

Using the property of square roots, a=ia\sqrt{-a} = i\sqrt{a} for a>0a > 0, we have:

x=±i14=±i2x = \pm i \sqrt{\frac{1}{4}} = \pm \frac{i}{2}

Final Answer:

The solutions are:

x=i2orx=i2x = \frac{i}{2} \quad \text{or} \quad x = -\frac{i}{2}

Would you like a more detailed explanation or examples?


Related Questions:

  1. What is the difference between real and complex solutions?
  2. How does the imaginary unit ii work in equations?
  3. What are some applications of complex numbers in real-world problems?
  4. How do you graph complex solutions on the Argand plane?
  5. How can this equation change if the constant is positive instead of negative?

Tip:

When solving quadratic equations, always check whether the discriminant (b24acb^2 - 4ac) is negative to determine if the solutions are complex.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Quadratic Equations
Complex Numbers

Formulas

Quadratic equation formula: ax^2 + bx + c = 0
Square root property: sqrt(-a) = i*sqrt(a) for a > 0

Theorems

Fundamental Theorem of Algebra

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12