Solving the Equation (x-1)(x^2+4x+4) = 4(x+2)
This equation involves a quadratic expression and requires us to solve for the unknown variable 'x'. Let's break down the steps to find the solutions.
1. Expand and Simplify
- Expand the left side: (x-1)(x^2+4x+4) = x(x^2+4x+4) - 1(x^2+4x+4) = x^3 + 4x^2 + 4x - x^2 - 4x - 4
- Simplify: x^3 + 3x^2 - 4 = 4(x+2)
- Expand the right side: x^3 + 3x^2 - 4 = 4x + 8
- Move all terms to one side: x^3 + 3x^2 - 4x - 12 = 0
2. Factor the Equation
- Factor by grouping: x^2(x+3) - 4(x+3) = 0
- Factor out the common factor: (x^2 - 4)(x+3) = 0
- Factor the difference of squares: (x-2)(x+2)(x+3) = 0
3. Solve for x
- Set each factor to zero and solve:
- x - 2 = 0 => x = 2
- x + 2 = 0 => x = -2
- x + 3 = 0 => x = -3
Solution
Therefore, the solutions to the equation (x-1)(x^2+4x+4) = 4(x+2) are x = 2, x = -2, and x = -3.