Math Problem Statement

Solve the absolute value equation |x^2 - 2x - 4| = 4.

Solution

The equation in the image is:

x22x4=4|x^2 - 2x - 4| = 4

Step-by-Step Solution:

  1. Understanding Absolute Value: The equation A=B|A| = B implies two cases:

    • A=BA = B
    • A=BA = -B

    Here, A=x22x4A = x^2 - 2x - 4 and B=4B = 4.

  2. Case 1: x22x4=4x^2 - 2x - 4 = 4: Simplify: x22x8=0x^2 - 2x - 8 = 0

    Factorize: (x4)(x+2)=0(x - 4)(x + 2) = 0

    Solutions: x=4orx=2x = 4 \quad \text{or} \quad x = -2

  3. Case 2: x22x4=4x^2 - 2x - 4 = -4: Simplify: x22x=0x^2 - 2x = 0

    Factorize: x(x2)=0x(x - 2) = 0

    Solutions: x=0orx=2x = 0 \quad \text{or} \quad x = 2

  4. Combine Solutions: The solutions are: x=2,0,2,4x = -2, 0, 2, 4

Final Answer:

The solutions are: x=2,0,2,4x = -2, 0, 2, 4

Let me know if you have questions or need further clarification.


Related Questions:

  1. How do we solve equations involving absolute values in general?
  2. What is the significance of factoring in quadratic equations?
  3. Could we use the quadratic formula instead of factoring?
  4. How do we verify the solutions in absolute value equations?
  5. What is the graphical interpretation of this solution?

Tip:

Always check your solutions when solving absolute value equations to ensure they satisfy the original equation.

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Absolute Value Equations
Quadratic Equations
Factoring

Formulas

|A| = B implies A = B or A = -B
Standard quadratic equation formula: ax^2 + bx + c = 0

Theorems

Absolute Value Property
Factoring Method for Quadratic Equations

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12