Solve the quadratic equation using the perfect square trinomial pattern

1/4x^2 + 2x + 4 = 0

1 answer

To solve the quadratic equation \( \frac{1}{4}x^2 + 2x + 4 = 0 \) using the perfect square trinomial pattern, we first want to rewrite the equation in a way that makes it easier to work with.

Step 1: Eliminate the fraction

Multiply the entire equation by 4 to eliminate the fraction:

\[ 4 \left( \frac{1}{4}x^2 + 2x + 4 \right) = 0 \]

This simplifies to:

\[ x^2 + 8x + 16 = 0 \]

Step 2: Identify the perfect square trinomial

Now, observe that \( x^2 + 8x + 16 \) can be factored as a perfect square trinomial:

\[ (x + 4)^2 = 0 \]

Step 3: Solve for \( x \)

Set the equation equal to zero:

\[ (x + 4)^2 = 0 \]

Take the square root of both sides:

\[ x + 4 = 0 \]

Now, solve for \( x \):

\[ x = -4 \]

Conclusion

The solution to the equation \( \frac{1}{4}x^2 + 2x + 4 = 0 \) is:

\[ \boxed{-4} \]