SOLUTION: Using the form of x^2=k for an equation. Is the solution always going to be real numbers?

Algebra ->  Quadratic Equations and Parabolas -> SOLUTION: Using the form of x^2=k for an equation. Is the solution always going to be real numbers?      Log On


   

Question 122661: Using the form of x^2=k for an equation. Is the solution always going to be real numbers?
Answer by jim_thompson5910(35256) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
If k%3C0 then the solution will not be a real number. To see why, let's solve for x:


x%5E2=k Start with the given equation


x=0%2B-sqrt%28k%29 Take the square root of both sides


So if k%3C0, then we won't have a real answer (remember you cannot take the square root of a negative number). So the answer will be an complex number.