Solving the Equation: (x+3)(x+4) = (x+1)(x+2)
This equation presents a simple quadratic equation that can be solved using a few algebraic steps. Let's break down the process:
Expanding the Equation
First, we need to expand both sides of the equation using the FOIL (First, Outer, Inner, Last) method:
- Left Side: (x+3)(x+4) = x² + 4x + 3x + 12 = x² + 7x + 12
- Right Side: (x+1)(x+2) = x² + 2x + x + 2 = x² + 3x + 2
Now our equation looks like this: x² + 7x + 12 = x² + 3x + 2
Simplifying the Equation
Next, we need to simplify the equation by combining like terms and bringing all terms to one side:
- Subtract x² from both sides: 7x + 12 = 3x + 2
- Subtract 3x from both sides: 4x + 12 = 2
- Subtract 12 from both sides: 4x = -10
Solving for x
Finally, we can solve for x by dividing both sides by 4:
- x = -10/4 = -5/2
Conclusion
Therefore, the solution to the equation (x+3)(x+4) = (x+1)(x+2) is x = -5/2.