Question

On paper, use the completing the square method to solve the equation x^2 + 16x + 2. Can anyone help me with this?

Answer 1

Answer:

x = -8 ± √62

Step-by-step explanation:

An equation needs an equals sign.  I assume the expression equals zero?

x² + 16x + 2 = 0

To complete the square, start by making the leading coefficient 1 (which it already is).

Next, take half of the b coefficient, square it, and add the result to both sides.

(16/2)² = 8² = 64

x² + 16x + 64 + 2 = 64

Factor the perfect square:

(x + 8)² + 2 = 64

Solve for x:

(x + 8)² = 62

x + 8 = ±√62

x = -8 ± √62