SOLUTION: I need to solve x^2+6x-16=0 by completing the square

Question 600305: I need to solve x^2+6x-16=0 by completing the square
Answer by jim_thompson5910(35256) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
First, let's complete the square.

Start with the given expression.

Take half of the coefficient to get . In other words, .

Now square to get . In other words,

Now add and subtract . Make sure to place this after the "x" term. Notice how . So the expression is not changed.

Group the first three terms.

Factor to get .

Combine like terms.

So after completing the square, transforms to . So .

So is equivalent to .

Now let's solve

Start with the given equation.

Add 25 to both sides

Take the square root of both sides.

or Break up the "plus/minus" to form two equations.

or Take the square root of to get .

or Subtract from both sides.

or Combine like terms.

--------------------------------------

Answer:

So the solutions are or .

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