Express x^2+8x+15 in the form (x+a)^2-b

Completing the Square is required to solve this equation. First, identify A,B, and C of the quadratic equation: A=1, B=8, C=15. Halve B to obtain a: B/2 = 8/2 = 4 so a = 4. Substitute a into the form (x+a)2-b: (x+4)2-b. Square a because it is within the squared brackets: a2 = 42 =16. Subtract the square of a from the equation (x+4)2-b: (x+4)2-16. Add C to the equation to obtain the final answer: (x+4)2-16 +15 = (x+4)2-1. ANS=(x+4)2-1

MP
Answered by Mahfuza P. Maths tutor

31007 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How do you break down a wordy question (e.g. Aled has three concrete slabs. Two slabs square, of length x, & the third rectangular of dimensions 1m & x+1m. Show 2x^2 +x-6=0 & Solve this)


Rearrange to make p the subject. C + 5 p = a ( C – p )


A bag contains red discs, white discs and blue discs. 1/6 of the discs are red, 1/4 of the discs are blue. What is the smallest possible number of white discs?


The probability of pulling out a coloured counter from a bag is shown below: Green=0.2. Purple=0.15. Black=0.3. Pink=?. What is the probability of pulling out a pink counter?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning