Factorise x² + 2x - 8

Since an x² is produced, we know that the factorised version will be (x+a)(x+b). To find a and b we need to consider the relationship between 2 and -8. It is going to be factorised into two brackets, due to the x², so we need to break the 2 down into 2 numbers that will add to give 2 and multiply together to give -8. The 8 is negative so one of these numbers must also be negative. These 2 numbers must be 4 and -2. Then substitude these numbers in to be a and b so the equation factorised is (x+4)(x-2)

HB
Answered by Hannah B. Maths tutor

31920 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

There are 11 counters in a bag. 8 of them red, 3 of them green. Neville takes 2 counters from the bag. Work out the probability that Neville takes one counter of each colour.


There are n sweets in a bag, 6 are orange, the rest yellow. Two sweets are taken out individually without replacement. The probability of which is 1/3. show n²-n-90=0


How do I form an algebraic fraction into a single fraction in its simplest form?


What is the Pythagoras Theorem?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences