find the values of x when 3x^2 - 6x - 9

First we will need to factorise the equation.

Start with the 3x^2 term and notice 3 is prime so must have 3x and x terms.

(3x - 9) (x + 1) or  (3x + 3) (x - 3)

Setting the brackets to 0 gives us 3x - 9 = 0 and x + 1 = 0   or  3x + 3 = 0 and x - 3 = 0

meaning  x = 3 and x = -1 

DM
Answered by Dylan M. Maths tutor

4940 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

a) If x=4, work out 3(x^2). b) Solve 6x-3=x+11


A man stands 9 metres from the base of a tree. He knows the distance from where he is standing and the top of the tree is 15 metres. How tall is the tree?


Two shops have deals for purchasing pens: "3 for £2" and "5 for £3" . Mr. Papadopoulos wants to buy 30 pens for his class in school, which deal should he use if he wants to spend the least amount of money possible, and how much will he spend?


Expand and simplify (x+12)(x-3)


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning