Chapter 7: Problem 74
Solve each equation. $$ x^{4}-14 x^{2}+49=0 $$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The solutions for the equation are x = \(\sqrt{7}\) and x = -\(\sqrt{7}\).
Step by step solution
01
Use Substitution Method
Substitute \(X=x^2\). The equation becomes as follows: \(X^2 - 14X + 49 = 0\).
02
Factor the Quadratic Equation
Factorize the equation to get \((X-7)^2 = 0\).
03
Solve for X
When \((X - 7)^2 = 0\), X can be 7.
04
Replace X with \(x^2\)
Now replace X with \(x^2\), so the equation becomes \(x^2=7\).
05
Solve for x
To solve for x, take the square root of both sides. Remembering there are two possible answers, positive and negative, the solutions for x are \(\sqrt{7}\) and -\(\sqrt{7}\).
Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!
-
Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
-
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
-
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
-
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.
Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91Ó°ÊÓ!
Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Substitution Method
The substitution method is a helpful technique for solving complex polynomial equations by simplifying them into familiar forms. It's particularly useful when dealing with quadratic equations within higher-power equations. This approach involves the following:
- Identifying a segment of the equation that forms a simpler pattern, like a square or a cube.
- Substituting this segment with a new variable, making the equation easier to manage.
Factoring Quadratic
Factoring is a method of breaking down an expression into products of simpler factors. To factor a quadratic equation appropriately, we need to look for two numbers that multiply to the constant term and add up to the coefficient of the linear term. Here's a breakdown:
- For the equation \(X^2 - 14X + 49 = 0\), 7 and 7 are the numbers that multiply to 49 and add to 14.
- This allows us to express the equation as \((X-7)(X-7) = 0\), or \((X-7)^2 = 0\).
Solving Polynomials
Solving polynomials involves finding the values of the variable that make the polynomial equal zero. When solving for the original variable \(x\) in our substituted equation, there's a last step involved. Here’s how it was achieved:
- From the factored form \((X-7)^2 = 0\), we knew \(X = 7\).
- Since we previously substituted \(X = x^2\), we now return to the original variable by setting \(x^2 = 7\).