How do you solve x^2-5=73?

1 Answer
smendyka
Feb 17, 2017

See the entire solution process below:

Explanation:

Because this equation has no x term we can solve directly for x^2. First, add color(red)(5) to each side of the equation to isolate the x^2 ter while keeping the equation balanced:

x^2 - 5 + color(red)(5) = 73 + color(red)(5)

x^2 - 0 = 78

x^2 = 78

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 will have both a negative and positive answer:

sqrt(x^2) = +-sqrt(78)

x = +-sqrt(78) = +-8.832 rounded to the nearest thousandth.

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