Factorise (x^2 +3x-18)=0, solving for x

To factorise and solve this equation we must put it into two brackets, instead of one, each with a single x term. As the is an x^2 term we know there must be an x in each bracket Because the number term at the end is negative we know one bracket must have a plus, and the other a negative. To figure out which numbers go in each bracket we must find two numbers that when multiplied together make -18 and when added/subtracted from each other make +3. The multiples of 18 are 1 and 18, 2 and 9 and 3 and 6. Only 3 and 6 can make the +3x we need. In order to make +3 we must have only bracket with -3 and the other with +6. This means we have factorised the equation to (x-3)(x+6)=0. To then solve the equations for the solutions to x we must put each bracket equal to 0 as that is the only way to produce 0 when two things are multiplied together. So, if x+6=0, then x=-6, and when x-3=0, x must be +3.

RM
Answered by Rachael M. Maths tutor

5830 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

A curve has the equation y = 4x^2 + 5x + 3 and a line has the equation y = x + 2. Show that the line and the curve have one point of intersection.


Please expand (y+2)(y-3).


What is the gradient of the line passing through the point (1,2) and (5,5)? What is the equation of this line? What is the equation of the line perpendicular to this line that passes through the origin (0,0)?


Two points P(–4, –1) and Q(–8, 5) are joined by a straight line. Work out the coordinates of the midpoint of the line PQ.


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