Question

The goal of this problem is to solve the equation by completing the square.

x^2 - 13 x + 36 = 0

Answer 1

first add -36 to both sides

Answer 2

Right, that I understand. I'm just finding it hard to think of a perfect square which would involve -13.

Answer 3

then u got
\[ \large x^2-13x+\qquad=-36 \]

Answer 4

in the blank: put the coefficient of x (-13) halved and then squared and add the same to the right hand side

Answer 5

x^2-13x+169/4=25/4

Answer 6

Right?

Answer 7

u forgot the -36 on the RHS
\[ \large x^2-13x+\color{red}{\frac{169}{4}}=-36+\color{red}{\frac{169}{4}}=
\frac{25}{4} \]

Answer 8

sorry u forgot nothing.

Answer 9

factor the LHS

Answer 10

Alright. So, (x-13/2) = 25/4?

Answer 11

Sorry...the LHS should be squared.

Answer 12

yes. u r right

Answer 13

Okay, wonderful. So...is the sol'n 13/2 plus or minus sqrt(25/4)?

Answer 14

yes
\[ \large x=13/2\pm\sqrt{25/4} \]

Answer 15

Okay, wonderful. Thanks so much!!

Answer 16

u r welcome