Math Problem Statement

If using the method of completing the square to solve the quadratic equation x, squared, minus, 6, x, plus, 6, equals, 0x 2 −6x+6=0, which number would have to be added to "complete the square"?

Solution

To solve the quadratic equation x26x+6=0x^2 - 6x + 6 = 0 by completing the square, follow these steps:

  1. Start with the given equation: x26x+6=0x^2 - 6x + 6 = 0

  2. Move the constant to the other side: x26x=6x^2 - 6x = -6

  3. To complete the square, we need to add a specific number to both sides. The number to add is based on the coefficient of xx (which is 6-6).

    Take half of the coefficient of xx, which is 62=3\frac{-6}{2} = -3, and then square it: (3)2=9(-3)^2 = 9

  4. Add 9 to both sides of the equation to complete the square: x26x+9=6+9x^2 - 6x + 9 = -6 + 9 Simplifying the right-hand side: x26x+9=3x^2 - 6x + 9 = 3

So, the number that must be added to complete the square is 9.

Would you like further details on how to finish solving the equation?

Here are 5 related questions:

  1. How do you factor the completed square form x26x+9x^2 - 6x + 9?
  2. Can completing the square method be used for any quadratic equation?
  3. What are other methods to solve quadratic equations besides completing the square?
  4. How does completing the square relate to the quadratic formula?
  5. What are real-world applications of solving quadratic equations?

Tip: When completing the square, always remember to add the same value to both sides of the equation to maintain equality.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Quadratic Equations
Completing the Square

Formulas

Quadratic equation formula: ax^2 + bx + c = 0
Completing the square: (b/2)^2

Theorems

Quadratic formula
Completing the square method

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10