Solve x2 14x = - 24 by completing the square. what is the solution set of the equation?

a. {-12, - 2}

b. {-7, 7}

c. {-6, - 4}

d. {-5, 5}

First, rearrange the equation so that only zero will be on the right side:

x^2 + 14x + 24 = 0

Let the coefficients be:

a = 1

b = 14

c = 24

To complete the square, add (b/2) ^2 to both sides of the equation:

(b/2) ^2 = 49

x^2 + 14x + 49 + 24 = 49

x^2 + 14x + 49 = 25

(x+7) ^2 = 25

Therefore, the solution set of the equation is {-12, - 2}