How do I find the extraneous solution of #sqrt(x+4)=x-2#?

1 Answer
Mar 8, 2018

#x=0" is an extraneous solution"#

Explanation:

#"square both sides to 'undo' the radical"#

#(sqrt(x+4))^2=(x-2)^2#

#rArrx+4=x^2-4x+4#

#"rearrange into standard form"#

#rArrx^2-5x=0larrcolor(blue)"in standard form"#

#rArrx(x-5)=0#

#rArrx=0" or "x=5#

#color(blue)"As a check"#

#"Substitute these values into the original equation"#

#x=0tosqrt4=2" and "0-2=-2#

#2!=-2rArrx=0color(red)" is an extraneous solution"#

#x=5tosqrt9=3" and "5-2=3larr" True"#

#rArrx=5color(red)" is the solution"#