Question

How do you solve `2n^2=-144`?

Answer 1

See the entire solution process below:

Explanation:

First, divide each side of the equation by `color(red)(2)` to isolate the `n^2` term while keeping the equation balanced:

`(2n^2)/color(red)(2) = -144/color(red)(2)`

`(color(red)(cancel(color(black)(2)))n^2)/cancel(color(red)(2)) = -72`

`n^2 = -72`

Now, take the square root of each side of the equation to solve for `n` while keeping the equation balanced. Remember, when taking the square root of a number there is a negative and positive answer:

`sqrt(n^2) = sqrt(-72)`

There is no real solution to this problem. You cannot take the square root of a negative number.