Answer:
(x - 9)(x + 8)
Explanation:
Given
x² - x - 72
Consider the factors of the constant term (- 72) which sum to give the coefficient of the x- term (- 1)
the factors are - 9 and + 8, since
- 9 × 8 = - 72 and - 9 + 8 = - 1, thus
x² - x - 72 = (x - 9)(x + 8)