Introduction to Completing the Square

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 63 views

Introduction to Completing the Square

Completing the square is a powerful technique used to solve quadratic equations of the form $ax^2 + bx + c = 0$ . This method involves manipulating the equation to express it in the form $(x + d)^2 = e$ , where $d$ and $e$ are constants. In this article, we will explore the intermediate step in completing the square for the equation $x^2 + 103 = -18x + 13$ .

Understanding the Equation

The given equation is $x^2 + 103 = -18x + 13$ . To complete the square, we need to move all the terms to one side of the equation, resulting in a quadratic expression on the left-hand side. This gives us:

x^2 + 18x + 103 + 13 = 0

Grouping Like Terms

Next, we group the like terms together:

(x^2 + 18x) + (103 + 13) = 0

Completing the Square

To complete the square, we need to add and subtract $(18/2)^2 = 81$ inside the parentheses:

(x^2 + 18x + 81) + (103 + 13 - 81) = 0

Simplifying the Expression

Now, we simplify the expression by combining the constants:

(x + 9)^2 + 35 = 0

The Intermediate Step

The intermediate step in completing the square is to express the equation in the form $(x + d)^2 = e$ . In this case, the intermediate step is:

(x + 9)^2 = -35

Conclusion

In conclusion, the intermediate step in completing the square for the equation $x^2 + 103 = -18x + 13$ is $(x + 9)^2 = -35$ . This step is crucial in solving quadratic equations using the completing the square method.

Why is Completing the Square Important?

Completing the square is an important technique in algebra because it allows us to solve quadratic equations in a more straightforward way. It also helps us to understand the properties of quadratic equations and how they can be manipulated to solve for the variable.

Real-World Applications of Completing the Square

Completing the square has many real-world applications, including:

Physics and Engineering: Quadratic equations are used to model the motion of objects under the influence of gravity, friction, and other forces. Completing the square is used to solve these equations and determine the position, velocity, and acceleration of the object.
Computer Science: Quadratic equations are used in computer graphics to create 3D models and animations. Completing the square is used to solve these equations and determine the position and orientation of the objects in the scene.
Economics: Quadratic equations are used in economics to model the behavior of economic systems and make predictions about future trends. Completing the square is used to solve these equations and determine the optimal values of the variables.

Tips and Tricks for Completing the Square

Here are some tips and tricks for completing the square:

Make sure to move all the terms to one side of the equation. This will ensure that the equation is in the correct form for completing the square.
Group like terms together. This will make it easier to complete the square and simplify the expression.
Add and subtract the same value inside the parentheses. This will allow you to complete the square and simplify the expression.
Simplify the expression. This will make it easier to read and understand the equation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when completing the square:

Not moving all the terms to one side of the equation. This will result in an incorrect equation and make it difficult to complete the square.
Not grouping like terms together. This will make it difficult to complete the square and simplify the expression.
Not adding and subtracting the same value inside the parentheses. This will result in an incorrect equation and make it difficult to complete the square.
Not simplifying the expression. This will make it difficult to read and understand the equation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, completing the square is an important technique in algebra that allows us to solve quadratic equations in a more straightforward way. It also helps us to understand the properties of quadratic equations and how they can be manipulated to solve for the variable. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can master the art of completing the square and solve quadratic equations with ease.

Introduction

Completing the square is a powerful technique used to solve quadratic equations of the form $ax^2 + bx + c = 0$ . In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about completing the square.

Q: What is completing the square?

A: Completing the square is a technique used to solve quadratic equations by manipulating the equation to express it in the form $(x + d)^2 = e$ , where $d$ and $e$ are constants.

Q: Why is completing the square important?

A: Completing the square is important because it allows us to solve quadratic equations in a more straightforward way. It also helps us to understand the properties of quadratic equations and how they can be manipulated to solve for the variable.

Q: How do I complete the square?

A: To complete the square, you need to follow these steps:

Move all the terms to one side of the equation.
Group like terms together.
Add and subtract the same value inside the parentheses.
Simplify the expression.

Q: What is the intermediate step in completing the square?

A: The intermediate step in completing the square is to express the equation in the form $(x + d)^2 = e$ . This step is crucial in solving quadratic equations using the completing the square method.

Q: How do I know when to complete the square?

A: You should complete the square when you are given a quadratic equation and you need to solve for the variable. Completing the square is a useful technique when the equation is not easily solvable using other methods.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when completing the square?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when completing the square include:

Not moving all the terms to one side of the equation.
Not grouping like terms together.
Not adding and subtracting the same value inside the parentheses.
Not simplifying the expression.

Q: Can I use completing the square to solve quadratic equations with complex coefficients?

A: Yes, you can use completing the square to solve quadratic equations with complex coefficients. However, you need to be careful when working with complex numbers and make sure to follow the correct procedures.

Q: Can I use completing the square to solve quadratic equations with rational coefficients?

A: Yes, you can use completing the square to solve quadratic equations with rational coefficients. However, you need to be careful when working with rational numbers and make sure to follow the correct procedures.

Q: How do I check my work when completing the square?

A: To check your work when completing the square, you need to follow these steps:

Plug the solution back into the original equation.
Simplify the expression.
Check if the equation is true.

Q: What are some real-world applications of completing the square?

A: Some real-world applications of completing the square include:

Physics and Engineering: Quadratic equations are used to model the motion of objects under the influence of gravity, friction, and other forces. Completing the square is used to solve these equations and determine the position, velocity, and acceleration of the object.
Computer Science: Quadratic equations are used in computer graphics to create 3D models and animations. Completing the square is used to solve these equations and determine the position and orientation of the objects in the scene.
Economics: Quadratic equations are used in economics to model the behavior of economic systems and make predictions about future trends. Completing the square is used to solve these equations and determine the optimal values of the variables.

Conclusion

In conclusion, completing the square is a powerful technique used to solve quadratic equations. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can master the art of completing the square and solve quadratic equations with ease. Remember to check your work and be careful when working with complex numbers and rational coefficients.