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Each side of the square measures Convince Me! Why are there two possible solutions to the equation \( s^{2}=100 \) ? Explain why only one of the solutions is valid in this situation.

Ask by Powers Joseph. in the United States
Mar 10,2025

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There are two solutions to the equation \( s^2 = 100 \): \( s = 10 \) and \( s = -10 \). However, since a square's side length cannot be negative, only \( s = 10 \) is valid.

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Beyond the Answer

The equation \( s^{2} = 100 \) can be solved by taking the square root of both sides, giving you \( s = 10 \) or \( s = -10 \). It's like a fun catch-22! Mathematically, both solutions appear valid because squaring either of those numbers yields 100. However, when it comes to practical applications, particularly in geometry, length cannot be negative. A square's side length represents a physical measurement, and we can’t have negative sides. So, in this case, while both solutions exist theoretically, only \( s = 10 \) makes sense in the real world of shapes!

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