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Ch. 1 - Equations and Inequalities
Blitzer - College Algebra 8th Edition
Blitzer8th EditionCollege AlgebraISBN: 9780136970514Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 2, Problem 77

Solve each equation by the method of your choice. (x3)225=0(x-3)^2 - 25 = 0

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1
Start with the given equation: \( (x-3)^2 - 25 = 0 \).
Isolate the squared term by adding 25 to both sides: \( (x-3)^2 = 25 \).
Take the square root of both sides, remembering to consider both the positive and negative roots: \( x - 3 = \pm \sqrt{25} \).
Simplify the square root: \( x - 3 = \pm 5 \).
Solve for \(x\) by adding 3 to both sides for each case: \( x = 3 + 5 \) and \( x = 3 - 5 \).

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Solving Quadratic Equations

Quadratic equations are polynomial equations of degree two, typically in the form ax² + bx + c = 0. Solving them involves finding values of x that satisfy the equation. Common methods include factoring, completing the square, and using the quadratic formula.
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Difference of Squares

The difference of squares is a special factoring technique where an expression of the form a² - b² can be factored into (a - b)(a + b). Recognizing this pattern simplifies solving equations like (x - 3)² - 25 = 0 by rewriting 25 as 5².
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Isolating the Variable

Isolating the variable means manipulating the equation to get x alone on one side. This often involves adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing, or taking roots. It is a fundamental step in solving equations to find the exact values of the unknown.
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