Completing the Square is the process of converting a quadratic equation into a perfect square trinomial by adding or subtracting terms on both sides.
x2 + 1 = 0 ⇒ (x + 1)2 = 2x In the example shown above, the term 2x is added on both sides to convert x2 + 1 = 0 into a perfect square trinomial.
A. - 13 and - 3
B. 1 and - 39
C. 13 and - 3
D. 3 and - 13
Correct Answer: D
Step 1: x2 + 10x = 39 ⇒ x2 + 10x + 25 = 39 + 25
Step 2: (x + 5)2 = 64 ⇒ x + 5 = - 8 or 8
Step 3: x = 3 or - 13