Mil.navy.01 completing the square

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The discussion focuses on the mathematical technique of completing the square to solve the equation $x^2 - 4x + 3 = 0$. The correct transformation is $(x-2)^2 = 1$, which corresponds to option d from the multiple-choice answers provided. The steps to arrive at this solution include isolating the quadratic expression and simplifying it correctly. The confusion arises from the interpretation of the problem, which is clarified through detailed algebraic manipulation.

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karush
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$\tiny{mil.navy.01}$
This is on an sample entrance exam test for the Navy Academy

Use "completing the square" to rewrite
$x^2-4x+3=0$ in the form $\quad (x-c)^2=d$
a, $(x-1)^2=1$
b. $(x-2)^2=1$
c. $(x-3)^2=1$
d. $(x-2)^2=2$
e. $(x-4)^2=1$

ok I am not sure why they suggest the second transformation
 
Last edited:
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$$x^2-4x+3 = 0\\
(x-2)^2 -4 + 3 = 0\\
(x-2)^2 = 1$$

I don't think the problem is suggesting anything.
Those are multiple choice answers only one of which is correct.
 
$x^2-4x+3=0$
isolate
$x^2-4x=-3$
add 4 to both sides
$x^2-4x+4=-3+4$
simplify
$(x-2)^2=1$
 

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