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Advanced Math / Nonlinear equations in one variable and systems of equations in two variables Difficulty: Medium

w 2 + 12 w - 40 = 0

Which of the following is a solution to the given equation?

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Explanation

Choice D is correct. Adding 40 to both sides of the given equation yields w 2 + 12 w = 40 . To complete the square, adding 1222, or 62, to both sides of this equation yields w2+12w+62=40+62, or w+62=76. Taking the square root of both sides of this equation yields w+6=±76, or w+6=±219. Subtracting 6 from both sides of this equation yields w=-6±219. Therefore, the solutions to the given equation are -6+219 and -6-219. Of these two solutions, only -6+219 is given as a choice.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.