Answer:
x = 1 or x = -9
Explanation:
Solve for x over the real numbers: 
x^2 + 8 x - 9 = 0 
 
Hint: | Solve the quadratic equation by completing the square. 
Add 9 to both sides: 
x^2 + 8 x = 9 
 
Hint: | Take one half of the coefficient of x and square it, then add it to both sides. 
Add 16 to both sides: 
x^2 + 8 x + 16 = 25 
 
Hint: | Factor the left hand side. 
Write the left hand side as a square: 
(x + 4)^2 = 25 
 
Hint: | Eliminate the exponent on the left hand side. 
Take the square root of both sides: 
x + 4 = 5 or x + 4 = -5 
 
Hint: | Look at the first equation: Solve for x. 
Subtract 4 from both sides: 
x = 1 or x + 4 = -5 
 
Hint: | Look at the second equation: Solve for x. 
Subtract 4 from both sides: 
Answer: x = 1 or x = -9