Math Problem Statement

Solve the equation: x^2 - 10x + 16 = 0. If there are multiple roots, provide the largest root.

Solution

The equation provided is:

x210x+16=0x^2 - 10x + 16 = 0

We can solve this quadratic equation using the quadratic formula:

x=b±b24ac2ax = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}

Here, the coefficients are:

  • a=1a = 1
  • b=10b = -10
  • c=16c = 16

Step 1: Calculate the discriminant

Δ=b24ac=(10)24(1)(16)=10064=36\Delta = b^2 - 4ac = (-10)^2 - 4(1)(16) = 100 - 64 = 36

Step 2: Apply the quadratic formula

x=(10)±362(1)=10±62x = \frac{-(-10) \pm \sqrt{36}}{2(1)} = \frac{10 \pm 6}{2}

Step 3: Compute the two roots

x1=10+62=162=8x_1 = \frac{10 + 6}{2} = \frac{16}{2} = 8 x2=1062=42=2x_2 = \frac{10 - 6}{2} = \frac{4}{2} = 2

Final Answer:

The roots are x1=8x_1 = 8 and x2=2x_2 = 2. The largest root is:

8\boxed{8}

Let me know if you'd like further explanation or more examples!


5 Questions to Expand Understanding:

  1. How does the discriminant affect the number of roots in a quadratic equation?
  2. What does it mean when the discriminant is negative?
  3. Can this quadratic equation be factored directly without the quadratic formula?
  4. What are some real-world applications of quadratic equations?
  5. How can graphing confirm the roots of this equation?

Tip: Always check if a quadratic equation can be factored easily before using the quadratic formula—it can save time!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Quadratic Equations

Formulas

Quadratic formula: x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / 2a

Theorems

Quadratic formula

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10