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

3445 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is 17% of 84?


Lily is buying theatre tickets. 4 adult tickets at £15 each 2 child tickets at £10 each A 10% booking fee is added to the ticket price. 3% is then added for paying by credit card. Work out the total ticket price if Lily is paying by card?


White paint costs £2.80 per litre. Blue paint costs £3.50 per litre. White paint and blue paint are mixed in the ratio 3 : 2 Work out the cost of 18 litres of the mixture.


A triangle has sides of length 8 cm, 10 cm and 14 cm. Work out the size of the largest angle of the triangle. Give your answer correct to 1 decimal place.


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