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

2903 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Calculate the length of the hypotenuse of a right-angled triangle when the other two sides measure 6cm and 9cm.


Consider f:R -> R, f = x/ sqrt(x^2+1). Prove that for any a between -1 and 1, f(x)=a has only one solution.


Solve the simultaneous equations, 2x-3y=14 and 3x+4y=4


Solve the linear simultaneous equations: 3x + 5y = 45, 2x - 9y = -7


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