Discover the Steps to Solve for X in a Chemistry pH Equation

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To solve for x in the pH equation (x + 1*10^-8)(x) = 1.0*10^-14, first expand the equation to x^2 + 1*10^-8x - 1*10^-14 = 0. The quadratic formula, x = [-b ± sqrt(b^2 - 4ac)] / 2a, can then be applied, where a = 1, b = 1*10^-8, and c = -1*10^-14. After substituting these values, the correct solution for x is approximately 9.5 x 10^-8. The discussion emphasizes the importance of correctly applying the quadratic formula to resolve the confusion with the two x terms.
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Hi,

I have a mathematical problem coming from chemistry (dealing with pH). I've set everything up but can't do the math, I need the math steps to be shown to me.

How do you solve for x in this equation?
(x + 1*10^-8) (x) = 1.0*10^-14

x should be equal to 9.5 x 10^-8, but what steps do you take to get this value? I have tried this problem for a while and keep getting stuck because there are 2 x's on the left side of the equation. I don't know where to begin anymore or what to do. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
 
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please do not double post.

see this thread.
 
(x + 1*10^-8) (x) = 1.0*10^-14
x^2 + 1*10^-8x=1*10^-14
x^2 + 1*10^-8x - 1*10^-14 =0

do you know quatratic formulas?
 
Sorry Integral, I posted and about 10 minutes later I thought I posted in the wrong section so I edited my post and decided maybe I should be posting my question here instead. Thank you for pointing me in the right direction for the solution (I looked at the other thread).

Thanks vincentchan, yes, I know the quadratic formula.
- b +/- sqrt b^2 - 4(a)(c) over 2a
I tried this at one point, but got confused and thought it was wrong. I'll try it again.
 

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