Solve by factorisation. 2x(^2)+5x-12=0

To factorise and solve for x, open two sets of brackets, i.e: (x )(x ). For this question note than one x should be replaced by 2x such that (2x )(x ). List the pairs of numbers that give a product of 12, i.e: 1 and 12, 2 and 6, 3 and 4. As 12 is minus in this equation, note that one number in each pair will need to be negative in order to make 5x. Now substitute each pair into the brackets to see what makes the correct equation. End up with (2x-3)(x+4). Now equate each bracket to 0 to find x:2x-3=0 -> 2x=3 -> x=3/2 and x+4=0 -> x=-4. So x=3/2 or -4.

EW
Answered by Emily W. Maths tutor

7624 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Solve the Simultaneous equations '2x-3y=24' and '6x+2y=-5'


Complete the square of X^2 + 4X - 12


Two ordinary fair dice are rolled. Work out the probability that both land on a value less than 4.


How do you factorise x^2 -4 = 0?


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