Question

How do you solve `x^2+8x-2=0` using the quadratic formula?

Answer 1

`- 4 +- 3sqrt2`

Explanation:

Use the improved quadratic formula (Google, Yahoo Search).
`D = d^2 = b^2 - 4ac = 64 + 8 = 72` --> `d = +- 6sqrt2`
There are 2 real roots:
`x = -b/(2a) +- d/(2a) = -8/2 +- (6sqrt2)/2 = - 4 +- 3sqrt2`