Math Problem Statement

What are the solution(s) of x squared minus 4 = 0? x = negative 4 or x = 4 x = negative 2 or x = 2 x = 2 x = 4

Solution

The equation is:

x24=0x^2 - 4 = 0

We can solve this by factoring the left-hand side:

x24=(x2)(x+2)=0x^2 - 4 = (x - 2)(x + 2) = 0

Now, set each factor equal to zero:

  1. x2=0x - 2 = 0 gives x=2x = 2
  2. x+2=0x + 2 = 0 gives x=2x = -2

So, the solutions are x=2x = -2 and x=2x = 2.

The correct answer is:

x=2 or x=2\boxed{x = -2 \text{ or } x = 2}

Would you like more details on how factoring works?

Here are 5 related questions:

  1. What is factoring in algebra, and why is it useful?
  2. How can you solve quadratic equations using the quadratic formula?
  3. What are the solutions to x29=0x^2 - 9 = 0?
  4. What happens when the equation has complex solutions, such as x2+4=0x^2 + 4 = 0?
  5. Can you solve the equation x24x=0x^2 - 4x = 0?

Tip: Always check if a quadratic equation can be factored before using more advanced methods like the quadratic formula!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Quadratic Equations
Factoring

Formulas

x^2 - 4 = (x - 2)(x + 2) = 0

Theorems

Zero-Product Property

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9