solve x^2 - x - 6 = 0

y = x2 - x - 6It is first important to realise that we are able to find the values of x when y = 0, that is where the parabola crosses the x axis. We can visually represent this and our solutions to the equation should match with this representationfirstly factorise the expression --> multiples of 6 include (2 and 3) and (6 and 1)Next see whether addition or subtraction of either pair forms the coefficient of x --> -1indeed 2 - 3 = -1so we write (x - 3)(x + 2) = 0then separate the brackets and put both equal to 0x - 3 = 0 and x + 2 = 0rearrange the equations to find our two values of x --> 3 and -2

HR
Answered by Harry R. Maths tutor

2743 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

A right-angled triangle has side lengths of 4cm and 3cm. What is the length of its hypotenuse?


A right angled triangle has 2 known sides measuring 3 meters, 4 meters respectively. Find the hypotenuse and the smallest angle in the triangle.


Draw the graph y=tanx in the region -180 degrees =< x =< 180 degrees


4x^2 + 8x + 3 can be written in the form a(x + b)^2 + c where a, b and c are whole numbers. Work out the values of a, b and c.


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