Factorise and solve X^2+8X+15=0

For any equation in the form ax^2+bx+c and a=1, the first step is to find a set of numbers. In this case, they must add up to 8 (b) and multiply to 15 (c). 

With trial and error, it can be found that these are +3 and +5.

Thus, factorise the equation to get (X+3)(X+5)=0.

We know from this that X+3=0 or X+5=0.

Hence, we can solve both equations to get X=-3 and X=-5.

JA
Answered by James A. Maths tutor

3444 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

expand and simplify (x+4)(x-2)^2


Prove that the square of an odd number is always 1 more than a multiple of 4


Anna has 4 cakes. Three of them are squares with sides of length x, and one is rectangular and measures 2 by (3x+2). The total area of all the cakes is 13. What is the length of x?


Triangle ABC has perimeter 20 cm. AB = 7 cm. BC = 4 cm. By calculation, deduce whether triangle ABC is a right-angled triangle. 4 marks.


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