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Solve by completing the square
x2 + 14x - 38
First, we want to set the equation equal to zero and
bring the constant to the other side of the equal sign
x2 + 14x - 38 = 0
x2 + 14x + ____ = 38
Next, divide the middle term by 2 and then square it
Add the squared value to both sides
x2 + 14x + 49 =
38 + 49
x2 + 14x + 49 = 87
Factor the perfect square you have created on the left side
(x + 7)2 = 87
and finally, solve for x
(x + 7)2 = 87
√
(x + 7)2
= ±√
87
x + 7 = ± 9.33
x = ± 9.33 - 7
x1 = 9.33 - 7 = 2.33
x2 = - 9.33 - 7 = - 16.33