How do you solve #x^2-2=17#?

1 Answer
smendyka
Feb 17, 2017

See the entire solution process below:

Explanation:

First, add #color(red)(2)# to each side of the equation to isolate #x^2# while keeping the equation balanced:

#x^2 - 2 + color(red)(2) = 17 + color(red)(2)#

#x^2 - 0 = 19#

#x^2 = 19#

Now, take the square root of each side of the equation to solve for #x# while keeping the equation balanced. Also remember, the square root of a number has both a negative and positive answer:

#sqrt(x^2) = +-sqrt(19)#

#x = +-sqrt(19) = +-4.359# rounded to the nearest thousandth.

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