Starting with <span>3x^2-7x+12=0, we divide all four terms by 3, resulting in the following factored form: </span><span> 3(</span><span>x^2-[7/3]x+4)=0. </span><span> Since 3 cannot equal 0, we can focus on the following:
x^2 - 7/4 x =-4
This completes the assignment (describe Joe's steps up to this point).
If you wish to go further:
Next, take HALF of the coefficient of x and square your result:
(-7/[4][2])^2 = 49/64
Add this to both sides of </span>x^2 - 7/4 x =-4: <span>x^2 - 7/4x + 49/64 =-4+49/64
Rewrite the left side as (x-7/8)^2 and the right side as 49/64 - 256/64
Simplify the right side by combining these terms: -207/64
Then x-7/8 = plus or minus (1/8)sqrt(-207)
Next, x = 7/8 plus or minus (1/8)*i*</span>√207, or
7 plus or minus i*√207 x = ---------------------------------- 8
You just have to answer to all of the questions and bullet points. Think about them, and do some sketches. In the end that will help you to end the assignment.
