UGA Math Placement Practice Exam

To solve the equation \( x^2 - 9 = 0 \), we start by rearranging it. The equation can be rewritten as \( x^2 = 9 \). To isolate \( x \), we take the square root of both sides. This gives us two possible solutions:

1. \( x = 3 \)

2. \( x = -3 \)

These solutions indicate that both positive and negative values of \( x \) satisfy the original equation since squaring either will yield 9, thus satisfying the condition that the square minus 9 equals zero.

Therefore, the solution set is expressed as \( x = 3 \) or \( x = -3 \), comprehensively represented by the choice indicating both solutions. This highlights the importance of recognizing that when solving quadratic equations, multiple solutions may exist, particularly when dealing with square roots.