Solving the Equation (x+2)(x-2)-(x+1)^2=7
This article will guide you through the process of solving the equation (x+2)(x-2)-(x+1)^2=7. We will use algebraic manipulation to isolate the variable x and find its solution(s).
Simplifying the Equation
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Expand the products:
- (x+2)(x-2) is a difference of squares: (x+2)(x-2) = x² - 4
- (x+1)² is a perfect square: (x+1)² = x² + 2x + 1
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Substitute the expanded expressions back into the original equation: x² - 4 - (x² + 2x + 1) = 7
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Simplify by distributing the negative sign: x² - 4 - x² - 2x - 1 = 7
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Combine like terms: -2x - 5 = 7
Solving for x
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Isolate the x term: -2x = 12
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Divide both sides by -2: x = -6
Conclusion
Therefore, the solution to the equation (x+2)(x-2)-(x+1)^2=7 is x = -6.