Solve x^2 - 5x - 14 = 0

This is an example of a quadratic equation which we can solve on of two ways as it takes the form ax^2 + bx - c = 0a = 1, b = -5, c = -14 (1) Factorisation which we can do ourselves OR (2) Use the quadratic equation.(1) We need to find two numbers that equate to -5 (b) and multiply to give -14 (c). -7 + 2 = -5 and - 7 x 2 = -14. We therefore know the answer takes the form (x -7) (x+2) = 0. To solve equate each bracket to 0 and derive the value of x: x - 7 = 0 -> x = 7 and x + 2 = 0 -> x = -2. The solutions are x = -2 and x = 7(2) If you can't see this relationship use the quadratic equation - we would run through this in the session

JB
Answered by Jessica B. Maths tutor

7542 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

A quarter circle has a radius of 8, calculate the area giving your answer in terms of pi


Fully simplify this equation; 3x^3 - x(3x+36) = 0


Solve the inequality 3x ≤ 4x+5


Amber has an unfair coin. The probability of throwing a tail is p. Amber throws the coin twice and the probability of throwing a head and then a tail is 6/25. Heads are more likely than tails. Show that 25p^2-25p+6=0 and find the value of p.


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