Question

What number must you add to the polynomial below to complete the square? x^2+17x

Answer 1

The number added to the polynomial by completing the square is
`(289)/(4)`

Step-by-step explanation:

Given that the polynomial is
`x^(2) +17x`

We need to determine the number that is added to the polynomial to complete the square.

The last term of the polynomial can be determined by dividing the term 17 by 2 and then squaring the term.

Thus, we have,

Last term =
`(17)/(2)`

Now, squaring the term, we have,

Last term =
`((17)/(2))^2=(289)/(4)`

Thus, the number added to the polynomial by completing the square is
`(289)/(4)`