Solve x^2 - x - 12

As it is a quadratic, I can use the quadratic equation, or (-b +/- sqrt(b2-4ac))/2aHere our a = 1, b = -1 and c = -12. Substitute into the quadratic equation, this becomes (1 +/- sqrt(1 + (4*12))/2 and then (1 +/- sqrt(49))/2Our answers will then be 1/2 + 7/2 and 1/2 - 7/2, which is equivalent to 4 and -3. Therefore our x = 4 and x = -3

FW
Answered by Freya W. Maths tutor

3840 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Nancy is driving and makes a wrong turn. The satnav indicates that her journey will take an extra 7 minutes. Nancy drives at an average speed of 60km/h to the nearest 5km/h. What's the greatest possible distance traveled in this detour in km to 2.d.p?


Find the values of a, b and c in the equation: (5x + 3)(ax + b) = 10x^2 + 11x + c.


The equation of the line L1 is y = 3x – 2 The equation of the line L2 is 3y – 9x + 5 = 0 Show that these two lines are parallel.


Solve 2x + 7 = 13


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