Question

Word problems?!

Answer 1

When solving a radical equation, John and Tim came to two different conclusions. John found a solution, while Tim's solution did not work in the equation.

Create and justify two situations: one situation where John is correct and a separate situation where Tim is correct.

Answer 2

Hello Stassiexoxo! Unusual question!
Let's go with Tim first. Suppose Tim encounters the radical equation
√x+9=0.

Tim tries to solve this by moving the 9 to the other side of the equation; he subtracts 9 from both sides and obtains
√x=−9.

To eliminate the radical and to solve for x, he now squares both sides of this equation. Can you help him do that?
What possible solution do the two of you arrive at?
Substitute this possible solution back into the original equation. Is the resulting equation true or false?
How about you try supervising John. Guide him in the right direction to create and solve a radical equation whose solution really is a solution, that is, it satisfies the original equation.