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

JR
Answered by Josh R. Maths tutor

5247 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Find the equation of the straight line joining points (-1, -4) and (2, 5)


How do I revise for my Maths GCSE exam?


The are 10 coloured balls in a bag, 4 red, 3 green, 2 orange and 1 yellow. John picks out balls and replaces them one at a time. What is the probability that the first two he picks are red?


How do I find f'(x) for f(x)=4x^3+x^2+5x+8?


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