Solving the Equation: (x-12)(x+12) = 2(x-6)^2 - x^2
This article will guide you through the steps to solve the equation (x-12)(x+12) = 2(x-6)^2 - x^2.
1. Expand Both Sides of the Equation
Let's begin by expanding both sides of the equation to simplify it:
- Left Side: (x-12)(x+12) = x² - 144 (using the difference of squares formula)
- Right Side: 2(x-6)² - x² = 2(x² - 12x + 36) - x² = x² - 24x + 72
Now our equation looks like this: x² - 144 = x² - 24x + 72
2. Simplify the Equation
Notice that we have x² terms on both sides. Subtracting x² from both sides simplifies the equation:
- -144 = -24x + 72
3. Isolate the Variable
Next, we need to isolate the 'x' term. Let's move the constant terms to one side:
- -144 - 72 = -24x
- -216 = -24x
4. Solve for x
Finally, divide both sides by -24 to solve for x:
- x = -216 / -24
- x = 9
Conclusion
Therefore, the solution to the equation (x-12)(x+12) = 2(x-6)² - x² is x = 9.