Question

solve the equation and write complex solutions in standard form. x^2+16x+74=0

Answer 1

use the quadratic formula

\[x = (-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac})/2a\]

in your question a = 1, b = 16, c = 74

the value of \[b^2 -4ac = 16^2 - 4\times1\times74 = -40\]

this can be written as

\[-40 = 40i^2\]

you'll need to simplify the surd