Question

If you solve by factoring, for what values of x is x^2+2x=24 true?

a.) -4 & 6
b.) 6 & 4
c.) -6 & -4
d.) 4 & -6

Answer 1

Explanation:

x^2+2x=24 is equivalent to x^2+2x-24.

You know that the sum of two numbers has to be 2 and the product -24. The only numbers which fit these circumstances are 6 and -4. Now you can factor the expression.

(x+6)(x-4)=0

Using zero product property, you get:

x+6=0 which means x=-6

x-4=0 which means x=4

Using substitution you can check your answers!

Hope this helps! :)