How do you factorise a simple quadratic equation?

Simple quadratic equations e.g. x2+5x + 6 = 0, can be solved by evaluating the second and third terms. Quadratic equations can be represented within two sets of brackets (x + a)(x + b). Using this template, we can identify that the second term +5(x) is equivalent to a+b and that the third term +6 is equivalent to ab. With trial and error, or simple substitution, we can solve these as simultaneous equations: a+b = 5 ab = 6to assess that x2+5x + 6 = 0 can be factorised into (x+3)(x+2).

KF
Answered by Kendall F. Maths tutor

2550 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

i) Factorise x^2 – 7x + 12 ii) Solve x^2 – 7x + 12


Sam uses 140g of flour to make 12 cakes. How much flour will Sam need to make 21 cakes?


Factorise x²+5x+6.


Given the functions f(x) = (x + 2)/9 and g(x) = x^3 + 6, find fg(x).


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