solve x^2 - x - 6 = 0

y = x2 - x - 6It is first important to realise that we are able to find the values of x when y = 0, that is where the parabola crosses the x axis. We can visually represent this and our solutions to the equation should match with this representationfirstly factorise the expression --> multiples of 6 include (2 and 3) and (6 and 1)Next see whether addition or subtraction of either pair forms the coefficient of x --> -1indeed 2 - 3 = -1so we write (x - 3)(x + 2) = 0then separate the brackets and put both equal to 0x - 3 = 0 and x + 2 = 0rearrange the equations to find our two values of x --> 3 and -2

HR
Answered by Harry R. Maths tutor

2675 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Can you run through the quadratic equation(including the sketch and algebra).


Write the following in their simplest form: a) 8^0 b) 64^(2/3) c) 0.54545454...


Define a surd and find the length of one side of a 50cm^2 square shape in surd form


Write x/(x-1) - x/(x+1) as a single fraction in its simplest form (Edexcel GCSE 2016)


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