Common Algebra Mistakes
Example: Solving a Quadratic Equation

The Goal

Find all real number solutions for the following equation:

goal


The Mistake

Find the algebra mistake:

mistake


Need a hint? Look carefully at the red part of the algebra:

mistake


The Correction

correction


An Explanation

Don't jump to conclusions. Show the intermediate step (see "The Correction") - it is almost impossible to make the mistake shown above if you do that.
(If we allow complex number solutions, then the solutions are x = ± i, where i is a square root of -1)

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