Find the value of x when x^2-x-6=0

We firstly need to look how to factorise quadratics. (x    )(x    ) By looking at this, we need 2 numbers that add together to make -1. We need 2 numbers that multiply to make -6. To multiply to make -6, we need at least one of these brackets to be negative: (x -  )(x +   ) Combinations of -6 include: -1 x 6, -6 x 1, -2 x 3, -3, x 2 By looking at these, and that we need to make -1, our numbers must be -3 and 2! Therefore: (x - 3)(x + 2) =0 x-3=0, x= 3 x+2=0, x= -2

Answered by Josh R. Maths tutor

4618 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Expand (x+3)(x+6)


The equation of a quadratic curve is y=x^2+ax+b. The points (6,-4) and (4,-6) lie on this curve. Find the co-ordinates of the turning point of the curve.


factorise 2x^2 +10x


Make 'a' the subject of the formula: p = (3a + 5) / (4 - a)


We're here to help

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