Question 249098
The sum of a number and its square is 56. Find the number. I believe its 7+49=56 but I don't know how to write it out. I must set up an Algebraic equation in order to get credit. 
I appreciate your help!

<pre><font size = 4  color = "indigo"><b>
{{{x + x^2 = 56}}}

{{{x^2 + x - 56 = 0}}}

{{{(x+8)(x-7)+0}}}

x+8 = 0;    x-7 = 0
  x = -8      x = 7

So there are two solutions, not just the one you thought of.

(-8)^2 + (-8) = 64 - 8 = 56

as well as yours:

   (7)^2 + (7) = 49 + 7 = 56

Edwin</pre>