SOLUTION: Find the value of a such that y^2 -6y + a is a perfect square. a=

Algebra ->  Algebra  -> Quadratic Equations and Parabolas -> SOLUTION: Find the value of a such that y^2 -6y + a is a perfect square. a=      Log On

Ad: You enter your algebra equation or inequality - Algebrator solves it step-by-step while providing clear explanations. Free on-line demo .
Ad: Algebra Solved!™: algebra software solves algebra homework problems with step-by-step help!
Ad: Algebrator™ solves your algebra problems and provides step-by-step explanations!

   

Question 32335: Find the value of a such that
y^2 -6y + a
is a perfect square.
a=
Answer by mukhopadhyay(490) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
y^2 -6y + a
=y^2 - 2*(3y) + a
=[y^2 - 2*y*3 + 3^2] + (a - 3^2)
=(y-3)^2 + (a-9)
For above to be a complete square, the remainder (a-9) has to be zero
Thus a-9 = 0
=> a=9