Solving the Equation: (x-1)(x+1) = 2(x^2-3)
This article will guide you through solving the equation (x-1)(x+1) = 2(x^2-3).
Step 1: Expand Both Sides
First, we need to expand both sides of the equation to get rid of the parentheses.
- Left Side: Using the "difference of squares" pattern, (x-1)(x+1) simplifies to x² - 1.
- Right Side: Distributing the 2, we get 2x² - 6.
Now, our equation looks like this: x² - 1 = 2x² - 6
Step 2: Rearrange the Equation
Next, let's rearrange the equation so all terms are on one side and set it equal to zero. Subtract x² from both sides and add 6 to both sides:
- x² - 1 - x² + 6 = 2x² - 6 - x² + 6
This simplifies to: 5 = x²
Step 3: Solve for x
Finally, we need to solve for x. Take the square root of both sides:
- √5 = √(x²)
Remember that taking the square root can result in both positive and negative solutions. Therefore:
- x = ±√5
Conclusion
The solutions to the equation (x-1)(x+1) = 2(x²-3) are x = √5 and x = -√5.