Question

Solve for x in the equation x squared minus 8 x + 41 = 0.

Answer 1

Answer:

x = 4 ± 5i

Step-by-step explanation:

Just use the quadratic formula (ax²+bx+c=0) like you would for every other quadratic equation. Substitute i² for -1 when you get the square root of a negative number.

a = 1

b = -8

c = 41

Solution is x = (8 ± √(64-4·41)) / 2

x = 4 ± (√-100) / 2

x = 4 ± (√-25·4)/2

x = 4 ± √-25

x = 4 ± √(25i²)

x = 4 ± 5i