Is it possible for two different numbers, when squared, to give the same result? What does this result tell you about solving an equation when the variable is squared? How many solutions will an equation like this have? Will there always be the same number of solutions for any equation with a squared variable? Explain.

Question

Mathematics

Skylar Moyer

19 January, 20:15

Is it possible for two different numbers, when squared, to give the same result? What does this result tell you about solving an equation when the variable is squared? How many solutions will an equation like this have? Will there always be the same number of solutions for any equation with a squared variable? Explain.

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Answers (1)

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Reynaldo Chang · Answer 1

Let x, y be two different numbers

suppose x^2=y^2

then x^2-y^2=0

which yields (x+y) (x-y) = 0

so either x=y or x=-y

In any case, x and y must be the same value

also when a vairable is squared like y=x^2

we must note that there are 2 possible solutions

x = (+/-) sqrt (y)