x^2 - 5x - 12 = 2, solve for x

RHS should always be 0 so start by taking that across.Now we want two numbers, they need to add up to make - 5 and multiply to make -14.Solve for this and we get -7 and +2.Use this information to factorise: (x - 7)(x + 2) = 0One or the other bracket must equal 0 for this to be true, so x must equal 7 or - 2.Then go on to explain quadratic formula for cases where factorisation is not so easy.

PS
Answered by Pratinav S. Maths tutor

3709 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Write 16 × 8^2x as a power of 2 in terms of x


Prove that an angle subtended by an arc is double at the centre then at the perimeter.


You are given sets A: {2,4,6,8,10,12} and B: {1,3,5,7,9,11} explain why A∩B = ∅


What is Pythagoras' theorem?


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