How can you factorise quadratics with a an x^2 coefficient higher than one?

If we take an example question such as 20x2 - 130 x = -20020x2 - 130 x = -200 Divide by 10 to simplify2x2 - 13x = -20 Take all of the terms to the left2x2 - 13x +20 = 0 Now use this technique. Multiply a and c to get 40 Then try to find two numbers that multiply to get 40 and add to get b (-13) This would be -8 and -5Now factorise 2x2 -8x -5x +20 = 0 2x (x-4) -5 (x-4) = 0(2x-5) (x-4) =0

VT
Answered by Vahgisha T. Maths tutor

2516 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

A scalene triangle has 3 angles ABC in degrees, where A = (3x + 7), B = (4x + 5), C = (x + 8). Find the value of largest angle.


A particle is moving along a straight line. The displacement of the particle from O at time t seconds is s metres where s = 2t^3 – 12t^2 + 7t. Find an expression for the velocity of the particle at time t seconds.


Solve the equation 18x^2-3x=6


Using your knowledge that tan(x) = sin(x) / cos(x) , how would you write 4/7tan(x)


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