For which values of x is x^2 - 5x + 6 < 0 true?

Factorising the left hand side of the inequality gives (x-2)(x-3), so we know that the quadratic curve intersects the x-axis at x=2 and x=3. Since the coefficient of x^2 in the quadratic equation x^2-5x+6 is positive (+1), the graph of this equation is "u-shaped" (or "opens upwards") therefore on the y-axis, the curve is below 0 (y<0) between the points x=2 and x=3 on the x-axis.
Hence, the curve with the equation x^2-5x+6 is below the x-axis when 2<x<3, giving the answer as to when x^2-5x+6<0 is true.

TV
Answered by Thomas V. Maths tutor

15910 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Solve the following set of simultaneous equations: 3x + 2y = 15 & 9x + 4y = 1


solve x^2 - 2 < 2


Find the length of the hypotenuse if the right angled triangle's other two sides are of length 5cm and 12cm.


How do you factorize a quadratic when a ≠ 1 when ax²+bx+c=0


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