Find Solution to x^2 + x - 2=0

Using the factorisation method.

the factorised solution will look like (x+a)(x+b) = 0

by multiplying these two brackets we get the equation:

x^2 + a.x+b.x + a.b = 0

so vomparing this to the equation in the question we see

a.b = -2        and       a+b = 1    and   a = -2/b

using substitution:

b^2 - 2 = b

b(b-1) = 2      so     b=2   (try substituting this in)

if b = 2 then a = -1

so the solution is 

(x - 1)(x + 2) = 0

MP
Answered by Matthew P. Maths tutor

5753 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Solve the simultaneous equations 2x - y = 13, x - 2y = 11


Prove that the square of an odd number is always 1 more than a multiple of 4


15/7 + 5/4


Solve the simultaneous equation 2x-4y=8 and 3x+3y=-15


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