Simplified Summary of the Solutions:
Jamal's Solution:
- Original Equation: Starts with the equation.
- Factoring: Correctly factors it.
- Zero Product Property: Sets each factor equal to zero leading to two solutions.
- Conclusion: Both solutions are correct.
George's Solution:
- Original Equation: Starts with the same equation.
- Misstep: Fails to set the equation to zero and incorrectly attempts to factor.
- Incorrect Factoring: Wrongly factors the equation.
- Zero Product Property: Misapplies it, leading to incorrect results.
- Conclusion: Both solutions he derived are incorrect.
Correct Approach for George's Equation:
- Set to Zero: Start with the equation and rearrange it to set it equal to zero.
- Factoring: Factor correctly.
- Apply Zero Product Property: Set each factor to zero and solve.
- Conclusion: Arrive at the correct solutions.
Summary:
- Jamal’s method is correct and yields true solutions.
- George’s method is flawed due to not setting the equation to zero, which leads to incorrect results.
- By following the proper method, George could achieve the same correct solutions as Jamal.