Write x^2+6x-7 in the form (x+a)^2+b where a and b are integers

Complete the square.We want a quadratic we can simplify.Halve the linear term coefficient (6) and square it.Add it to the (x2+6x) term and subtract it from the 7.x2+6x+(6/2)2-7-(6/2)2As you can see the equation still holds true as the +(6/2)2 and -(6/2)2 cancels out.Gives x2+6x+9-7-9x2+6x+9 simplifies to (x+3)(x+3) or (x+3)2Left with (x+3)2-16

Answered by George B. Maths tutor

16356 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

The perimeter of a right-angled triangle is 72 cm. The lengths of its sides are in the ratio 3 : 4 : 5 Work out the area of the triangle


Gemma has the same number of sweets as Betty. Gemma gives 24 of her sweets to Betty. Betty now has 5 times as many sweets as Gemma. Workout the total number of sweets that Gemma and Betty have.


Solve by completing the square: x^2 - 8x + 12 = 0


Solve the equation x^2 + 8x = -15


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences