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Ch. 1 - Equations and Inequalities
Chapter 2, Problem 14

Solve each equation in Exercises 1 - 14 by factoring. 10x - 1 = (2x + 1)^2

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1
Step 1: Start by expanding the right side of the equation. Use the formula for squaring a binomial: \((a + b)^2 = a^2 + 2ab + b^2\). Here, \((2x + 1)^2\) becomes \(4x^2 + 4x + 1\).
Step 2: Rewrite the equation with the expanded form: \(10x - 1 = 4x^2 + 4x + 1\).
Step 3: Move all terms to one side of the equation to set it to zero: \(0 = 4x^2 + 4x + 1 - 10x + 1\).
Step 4: Simplify the equation by combining like terms: \(0 = 4x^2 - 6x + 2\).
Step 5: Factor the quadratic equation \(4x^2 - 6x + 2 = 0\). Look for common factors or use the quadratic formula if necessary to find the values of \(x\).

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Factoring

Factoring is the process of breaking down an expression into a product of simpler factors. In algebra, this often involves rewriting polynomials as a product of binomials or monomials. Understanding how to factor is essential for solving equations, as it allows us to simplify expressions and find the roots of the equation.
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Quadratic Equations

A quadratic equation is a polynomial equation of the form ax^2 + bx + c = 0, where a, b, and c are constants. In the context of the given equation, recognizing that the right side is a perfect square trinomial helps in rewriting and solving the equation. Quadratics can often be solved by factoring, completing the square, or using the quadratic formula.
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Zero Product Property

The Zero Product Property states that if the product of two factors equals zero, then at least one of the factors must be zero. This principle is crucial when solving factored equations, as it allows us to set each factor equal to zero to find the solutions. Applying this property is a key step after factoring the equation.
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