Question

State the value of k that makes each expression a perfect square trinomial. Then, write the trinomial as the square of a binomial: p^2 - 5p + k. (I have some steps that I don't understand.)

Answer 1

coefficient of p = -5
coefficient of p / 2 = -5/2
(coefficient of p / 2)^2 = (-5/2)^2 = 25/4

Answer 2

p^2 - 5p + 25/4 = -k + 25/4
(p-5/2)^2 = +- 25/4
p = -5/2 +- 5/2

Answer 3

the answer has to be 6.25

Answer 4

To find k

1) Take the coefficient of p = -5

2) Divide this answer by 2 = -5/2

3) Square this answer = 25/4

So we have p^2 - 5p + 25/4. Now factor this expression

(p - 5/2)(p - 5/2)

or

(p - 5/2)^2

Answer 5

ohhh..

Answer 6

\[\frac{1}{2}\times5=\frac{5}{2}, (\frac{5}{2})^2=\frac{25}{4}=6.25\]

Answer 7

so add 6.25 to complete the square.