Using the Quadratic Formula to Solve y + 1/y = x

[paridiso]

1. y + 1/y = x
x = (1/2)\sqrt{x^2 - 4} + 1/[(1/2)\sqrt{x^2 - 4}]
How do you come to the above conclusion by using the quadratic formula?

Homework Statement

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 

[diazona]

First convert the equation you're given into a quadratic equation. It'll need to have one term with y^2, one term with just y, and one term that doesn't involve y at all. Can you think of a way to get it into that form? (Hint: multiply both sides of the equation by something)

 

[Mentallic]

What exactly does "solution" mean?

y\neq 0 so I'm sure you're not looking for the roots of that graph.

 

[HallsofIvy]

I presume paridiso meant "solve for y as a function of x". That is what diazona is talking about, certainly.

 

[diazona]

Indeed it is... I hope that's what the OP meant too.