Find Solution to x^2 + x - 2=0

Using the factorisation method.

the factorised solution will look like (x+a)(x+b) = 0

by multiplying these two brackets we get the equation:

x^2 + a.x+b.x + a.b = 0

so vomparing this to the equation in the question we see

a.b = -2        and       a+b = 1    and   a = -2/b

using substitution:

b^2 - 2 = b

b(b-1) = 2      so     b=2   (try substituting this in)

if b = 2 then a = -1

so the solution is 

(x - 1)(x + 2) = 0

MP
Answered by Matthew P. Maths tutor

5025 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Work out the nth term of the sequence 3, 7, 11, 15, ...


Factorise fully: 3x - 9x^2


A bag contains 10 apples. Three of the apples are green and seven of the apples are red. If an apple is pulled from the bag at random, what is the probability that the apple will be green?


By completing the square, find the solutions of x which satisfy the equation x^2+14x-1=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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning