When directed to solve a quadratic equation by completing the square, Sam arrived at the equation (x - (5/2)) ^2 = (13/4). which equation could have been the original equation given to Sam?

We have the following expression:

(x - (5/2)) ^ 2 = (13/4)

Let's rewrite the given expression:

x ^ 2 - 5x + 25/4 = (13/4)

x ^ 2 - 5x + 25/4 - 13/4 = 0

x ^ 2 - 5x + 12/4 = 0

x ^ 2 - 5x + 3 = 0

Answer:

the original equation given to Sam could have been:

x ^ 2 - 5x + 3 = 0