Solving the Equation: (x+1)(x+2) = (x-2)(x+2)
This equation presents a simple quadratic equation with a unique solution. Here's how to solve it:
Expanding the Equation
First, we need to expand both sides of the equation using the distributive property (also known as FOIL):
- Left Side: (x+1)(x+2) = x² + 2x + x + 2 = x² + 3x + 2
- Right Side: (x-2)(x+2) = x² + 2x - 2x - 4 = x² - 4
Now our equation looks like this: x² + 3x + 2 = x² - 4
Simplifying and Solving
We can simplify this further by subtracting x² from both sides:
3x + 2 = -4
Next, subtract 2 from both sides:
3x = -6
Finally, divide both sides by 3:
x = -2
Solution
Therefore, the solution to the equation (x+1)(x+2) = (x-2)(x+2) is x = -2.
Checking the Solution
We can check our answer by plugging x = -2 back into the original equation:
- Left Side: (-2 + 1)(-2 + 2) = (-1)(0) = 0
- Right Side: (-2 - 2)(-2 + 2) = (-4)(0) = 0
Since both sides equal 0, our solution is correct.