Question

Find the smallest zero for the function h(x) = 4x^2 - 8x - 60

Answer 1

The smallest zero is x = -3

Explanation:

We have been given the equation
`h(x)=4x^2-8x-60`

In order to find the zero, h(x) = 0

`4x^2-8x-60=0`

We can rewrite the equation by factor out 4

`x^2-2x-15=0`

Middle term can be written as -2x = -5x+3x

`x^2-5x+3x-15=0`

Now, we factored out GCF

`x(x-5)+3(x-5)=0`

Factored out the common term

`(x-5)(x+3)=0`

Apply the zero product property

`(x-5)=0, (x+3)=0\\\\x=5,-3`

Hence, the smallest zero is x = -3