Question

Factor the expression x2 − 5x − 24. A. (x − 4)(x + 6) B. (x − 3)(x + 8) C. (x + 3)(x − 8) D. (x + 4)(x − 6)

Answer 1

C. (x + 3)(x − 8)

Explanation:

We need two numbers that add to -5 and multiply to -24.

They are -8 and 3 since -8 + 3 = -5, and -8 * 3 = -24.

x^2 - 5x - 24 = (x - 8)(x + 3)