Question 251046
The x-intercepts of the equation can be found by finding the roots of the equation x^2+4x-1.  Use the quadratic formula x =( -b +/- Square Root[b^2-4ac])/(2*a)

where a= 1, b=4 and c=-1.

Sunstituting these values intp the quadratic formula we have

-4 +/- Square Root[16-4*1*(-1) = =4 +/- Square Root[20]

You can simplifly Square Root[20]=Square Root[4]*Square Root[[5]=Square[2^2]*Square[5]=2*Square Root[5]

The the x-intercepts are (-4+2*Square[5])/2 = -2+Square Root[5] AND

-2-Square Root[5].

In both cases, I was able to cancel 2 in the ny=umerator and denominator.

Learning how to simplify the Sqyare Root of a number was probably one of the objectuves of this problem along with practice using the quadatic formula. Also, don't forget that a negative number times anegative number is a positive number.