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

4030 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

The graph of y = x^2 + 4x - 3 (Graph A) is translated by the vector (3 | 2), find the equation of the new graph (Graph B)


How to factorise a quadratic


Simplify. (x(^2)+4x)/(x(^2)+3x-4)


Solve the simultaneous equations: 3y + 2x = 10, 4x - y + 3 = 2


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