Factorise x^2+2x-8

Firstly, note the general equation for a quadratic: ax^2+bx+c. We can see that in the above equation, a=1, b=2 and c=-8. When factorising we have to consider the product ac and b. ac=1(-8)=-8 and b=2. Now think, what two numbers multiply to give -8 and add to give 2? That would be 4 and -2. So now the equation becomes (x-2)(x+4) which is the answer.

KT
Answered by Katie T. Maths tutor

8112 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

find the roots of this following equation: 2x^2+18x+36


How to solve the maths GCSE question about Hannah's sweets that went viral


How do you factorise a quadratic? Something like x^2 + 4x + 3


How do i solve the quadratic x^2 + 5x + 6 = 0 ?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning