Chapter 11: Problem 58
Add the proper constant to each binomial so that the resulting trinomial is a perfect square trinomial. See Section 11.1. $$ x^{2}-10 x $$
Short Answer
Expert verified
Add 25 to the binomial to form a perfect square trinomial.
Step by step solution
01
Understand the Form of a Perfect Square Trinomial
A perfect square trinomial is of the form \((a - b)^2 = a^2 - 2ab + b^2\). Our task is to identify the value of \(b^2\) to make \(x^2 - 10x\) a perfect square trinomial.
02
Identify the Coefficient to Match with \(-2ab\)
In our binomial, \(-10x\) is equivalent to \(-2ab\). Therefore, the value of \(2ab = 10\). Since the formula is \(a^2 - 2ab + b^2\), here \(a = x\).
03
Solve for \(b\)
We have the equation \(-2x \, b = -10\) or \(2xb = 10\). Solve for \(b\) to get \(b = \frac{10}{2}\) which simplifies to \(b = 5\).
04
Calculate \(b^2\)
Now that we know \(b = 5\), calculate \(b^2\). So, \(b^2 = 5^2 = 25\).
05
Form the Perfect Square Trinomial
Add \(b^2 = 25\) to the original binomial \(x^2 - 10x\) to form the trinomial \(x^2 - 10x + 25\) which is a perfect square, seen as \((x - 5)^2\).
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.
Binomial
A binomial is an algebraic expression that contains exactly two terms. In the exercise above, the binomial we start with is \(x^2 - 10x\). Understanding binomials is important in manipulating algebraic expressions, especially when transforming them into other forms like perfect square trinomials.
The key to working with binomials lies in:
The key to working with binomials lies in:
- Recognizing the two distinct terms involved. Here we have \(x^2\) and \(-10x\).
- Understanding how these terms interact with each other, particularly when trying to form other kinds of expressions.
Solving for Constants
Solving for constants involves finding specific values that satisfy a condition within an equation or expression. In transforming the binomial \(x^2 - 10x\) into a perfect square trinomial, we need to solve for the constant \(b\).
To solve for this constant, consider:
To solve for this constant, consider:
- The relationship described by the expression \(-2ab = -10\).
- Set \(a = x\) and isolate \(b\) in the equation \(2x \cdot b = 10\).
- This isolation leads to finding \(b = \frac{10}{2} = 5\).
Trinomial Equations
Trinomial equations are algebraic expressions containing three terms. These can often be rewritten or factored into different forms for solving or simplification. In the current task, we transform a binomial into a trinomial that can be expressed as a perfect square.
A perfect square trinomial takes the form \(a^2 - 2ab + b^2\). By adding the constant term \(b^2\) to our binomial, we achieve this form. Doing so not only completes the square but also allows us to express the trinomial effectively as
A perfect square trinomial takes the form \(a^2 - 2ab + b^2\). By adding the constant term \(b^2\) to our binomial, we achieve this form. Doing so not only completes the square but also allows us to express the trinomial effectively as
- \((x - 5)^2 = x^2 - 10x + 25\)
- This demonstrates the inherent symmetry and structure in trinomials.
Algebraic Expressions
Algebraic expressions combine numbers, variables, and operation symbols to denote a quantity. Learning to manipulate these expressions is foundational in algebra. When dealing with algebraic expressions:
- Recognize the variables and constants involved.
- Use operations like addition, subtraction, and multiplication appropriately.
- Apply transformations, such as forming perfect squares, where applicable.