x^2-5x-50=0. Solve for the positive value of x

recognise this equation has the form ax^2 + bx + c =0. An equation with this form is a quadratic. Recognise in a quadratic equation there will be 2 values of x that will equal 0. These 2 values will multiply to make 'ac' add add to make 'b'. In this example, 'ac' is 1x-50=-50, and b is -5. What 2 numbers multiply to make -50, and add up to make -5? -10 and +5 multiply to make -50, and add to make -5. Therefore you would re-write the initial equation as (x-10)=0 and (x+5)=0. These become 2 new equations, now solve for these.x=10 and x=-5. The positive value of x is 10.

EF
Answered by Ellis F. Maths tutor

3083 Views

See similar Maths 13 Plus tutors

Related Maths 13 Plus answers

All answers ▸

Solve the following simultaneous equations: equation A 2y+3x=14 equation B y+2x=8


A cake recipe for 4 people has the following ingredients: 150g of flour, 120g of sugar, 80g of butter, 20ml of milk, and 2 eggs. How much sugar do I need to bake a cake for 7 people?


Bob has £500 and gives 70% to Edmund and 40% of what is left to George. Work out how much money each person has.


Solve the equation: 2x - 3 = 1/2


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