Solving the Equation (x+10)(x-10) = 300
This problem involves solving a quadratic equation. Here's how to approach it step-by-step:
1. Expand the Left Side
The left side of the equation is a product of two binomials. We can expand it using the FOIL method (First, Outer, Inner, Last):
(x + 10)(x - 10) = x² - 10x + 10x - 100 = x² - 100
2. Simplify the Equation
Now the equation looks like this:
x² - 100 = 300
3. Move Constant Term to the Right Side
Add 100 to both sides of the equation:
x² = 400
4. Take the Square Root of Both Sides
Remember that when taking the square root, we need to consider both positive and negative solutions:
x = ±√400
5. Calculate the Solutions
√400 = 20, so the solutions are:
x = 20 or x = -20
Therefore, the solutions to the equation (x+10)(x-10) = 300 are x = 20 and x = -20.