One less than twice what negative number squared is 97

Question

i dont even know what this means

Answer 1

I assume you want to solve for the negative number.  You need to translate the wording into the language of algebra.

 

x = the negative number

 

x² = the negative number squared

 

2x² = twice the negative number squared

 

2x² - 1 = one less than twice the negative number squared

 

It equals 97, so

 

2x² - 1 = 97

 

Solve for x.

 

2x² = 98

 

x² = 98/2 = 49

 

x = √49 = ±7

 

But x is negative, so the answer is

 

x = -7

 

Answer 2

One less than [-1]

twice a negative number squared [2x²]

is 97 [= 97]

 

2x² - 1 = 97 

 

Solve for x.  You'll get two answers, one positive and one negative.  They want the negative answer.