Solving the Equation (x + 2)(x - 3) = (x - 3)^2
This equation involves a quadratic expression and presents a unique opportunity to practice algebraic manipulation and solving for unknown variables. Let's break down the steps to find the solution(s) for x.
Step 1: Expand both sides of the equation
First, we need to expand both sides of the equation to simplify the expression:
- Left side: (x + 2)(x - 3) = x² - x - 6
- Right side: (x - 3)² = (x - 3)(x - 3) = x² - 6x + 9
Now our equation becomes: x² - x - 6 = x² - 6x + 9
Step 2: Simplify the equation
We can simplify the equation by subtracting x² from both sides:
-x - 6 = -6x + 9
Step 3: Isolate the x term
Next, let's isolate the x term by adding 6x to both sides:
5x - 6 = 9
Step 4: Solve for x
Finally, we can solve for x by adding 6 to both sides and then dividing by 5:
5x = 15 x = 3
Conclusion
Therefore, the solution to the equation (x + 2)(x - 3) = (x - 3)² is x = 3.
It's important to note that this solution represents a single value where the equation holds true. This kind of equation often leads to a single solution, but there are cases where you might have multiple solutions or no solutions at all.