(x-4)^2=9

2 min read Jun 17, 2024
(x-4)^2=9

Solving the Equation (x - 4)^2 = 9

This article will guide you through the process of solving the equation (x - 4)^2 = 9. We'll explore the steps involved and demonstrate how to arrive at the solution.

Understanding the Equation

The equation represents a quadratic expression where the left-hand side is a perfect square trinomial. This makes solving the equation relatively straightforward.

Solving for x

  1. Take the square root of both sides: √((x - 4)^2) = ±√9

  2. Simplify: x - 4 = ±3

  3. Isolate x: x = 4 ± 3

  4. Calculate the two possible solutions:

    • x = 4 + 3 = 7
    • x = 4 - 3 = 1

The Solutions

Therefore, the solutions to the equation (x - 4)^2 = 9 are x = 7 and x = 1.

Verification

To verify our solutions, we can substitute them back into the original equation:

  • For x = 7: (7 - 4)^2 = 3^2 = 9 (verified)
  • For x = 1: (1 - 4)^2 = (-3)^2 = 9 (verified)

Both solutions satisfy the original equation, confirming their validity.

Conclusion

Solving the equation (x - 4)^2 = 9 involves taking the square root of both sides and simplifying the resulting expression. This leads to two possible solutions: x = 7 and x = 1. By substituting these solutions back into the original equation, we can verify their accuracy.