How to Complete the Square?

Completing the square is a fundamental technique in algebra, especially when dealing with quadratic equations. It’s a powerful tool that allows us to transform a quadratic equation into a more manageable form, making it easier to solve. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the step-by-step process of completing the square, discuss its significance, and provide examples to illustrate its application.

 

What is Completing the Square?

Completing the square is a method used to rewrite a quadratic equation in the form of (x + d)² + e = 0, where d and e are constants. This form, known as a perfect square trinomial, simplifies the equation, making it easier to find the solutions for x. Let’s dive into the process.

Step 1: Understanding the Basics

Before we begin, let’s clarify some essential terms and concepts:

• Quadratic Equation: A quadratic equation is any equation that can be written in the form ax² + bx + c = 0, where a, b, and c are constants, and a is not equal to 0.
• Perfect Square Trinomial: A perfect square trinomial is an expression of the form (x + d)², where d is a constant.

Step 2: The Initial Equation

Consider the quadratic equation ax² + bx + c = 0. To complete the square, we need to ensure that a is equal to 1. If it’s not, we must divide the entire equation by a to achieve this form:

x² + (b/a)x + (c/a) = 0.

This step simplifies the equation, making it easier to work with.

Step 3: Half of b Squared

Now, let’s focus on the middle term (b/a)x. To complete the square, we need to add and subtract (b/2a)². This term, (b/2a)², is crucial for completing the square, as it ensures that the expression becomes a perfect square trinomial.

Step 4: Rearranging

Rearrange the equation to group the perfect square trinomial and the constants together:

x² + (b/a)x + (b/2a)² - (b/2a)² + (c/a) = 0.

Step 5: Simplify

Now, simplify the equation:

(x + (b/2a))² - (b/2a)² + (c/a) = 0.

Step 6: Isolate the Perfect Square Trinomial

Isolate the perfect square trinomial on the left side of the equation:

(x + (b/2a))² = (b/2a)² - (c/a).

Step 7: Taking the Square Root

Take the square root of both sides of the equation:

x + (b/2a) = ±√((b/2a)² - (c/a)).

Step 8: Isolate x

Now, isolate x by subtracting (b/2a) from both sides:

x = - (b/2a) ± √((b/2a)² - (c/a)).

Completing the Square in Action

Let’s apply the completing the square method to solve a quadratic equation:

Example: Solve x² + 4x + 1 = 0.

Step 1: Ensure that a is equal to 1. In this case, a = 1, so we can proceed.

Step 2: The equation is already in the simplified form.

Step 3: Find (b/2a)² = (4/2)² = 2² = 4.

Step 4: Rearrange the equation: x² + 4x + 4 - 4 + 1 = 0.

Step 5: Simplify: (x + 2)² - 3 = 0.

Step 6: Isolate the perfect square trinomial: (x + 2)² = 3.

Step 7: Take the square root: x + 2 = ±√3.

Step 8: Isolate x: x = -2 ± √3.

In this example, we have successfully completed the square and found the solutions for x. They are x = -2 + √3 and x = -2 - √3.

Significance of Completing the Square

Completing the square is a versatile technique with several practical applications, making it a valuable tool in algebra and mathematics:

1. Vertex Form: Completing the square allows us to express quadratic functions in vertex form, (x - h)² + k, where (h, k) represents the vertex of the parabola. This form provides valuable information about the graph of the quadratic equation.
2. Solving Quadratic Equations: As demonstrated in our examples, completing the square is a reliable method for solving quadratic equations. It provides an alternative approach to the quadratic formula and is especially useful when the coefficients are not easily factorable.
3. Geometric Interpretation: Completing the square has a geometric interpretation. It helps us visualize the transformation of a quadratic equation into a perfect square trinomial, making it easier to understand the behavior of quadratic functions.
4. Derivation of the Quadratic Formula: Completing the square is an essential step in deriving the quadratic formula, which is a fundamental tool for solving quadratic equations of any form.

Completing the Square for General Quadratic Equations

In some cases, quadratic equations may have a coefficient a in front of x², as in ax² + bx + c = 0. To complete the square for such equations, follow these steps:

Divide all terms by a to achieve the simplified form: x² + (b/a)x + (c/a) = 0.
Proceed with the completing the square method as outlined earlier.

Conclusion

Completing the square is a valuable technique that simplifies quadratic equations, making them easier to solve and providing insights into the behavior of quadratic functions. By following the step-by-step process and understanding its significance, you can confidently tackle quadratic equations, whether you’re finding solutions, graphing parabolas, or deriving important mathematical formulas. It’s a fundamental tool in the world of algebra, opening up a path to better solutions and a deeper understanding of mathematics.

A*Help Insights - sign up for our Newsletter

Sign up

Thanks for signing up!

Something went wrong. Please try again later.

Follow us on Reddit for more insights and updates.