what is a good way to factor a trinomial aX2 + bx + c
2006-10-01 13:19:47 · 3 answers · asked by JJcD 4 in Education & Reference ➔ Homework Help
x2 means x squared
2006-10-01 13:27:55 · update #1
it would have been more helpful if you gave an example so here's one
2x^2+8x+6
okay first thin of two numbers that multiply to equal two. in this case it'll be 1 & 2
(2x_ ) (x_ )
then think of two numbers that multiply to be six. it could be 1 & 6 or 2 & 3
then plug them in and see which works
(2x+2) (x+3)
multiply the 2 outer terms together (2x*3=6x)
and multiply the two inner terms together (2*x=2x)
add the two answers together 2x+6x=8x
if that answer equals the middle terms of your trinomial then you factored correctly 2x^2+8x+6
if not keep trying different combinations until you find the right one.
Good Luck!
2006-10-01 13:28:08 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
The most accurate way is to use the quadratic formula. I can't type it because of the math characters I dont have on my keyboard, so just search "Quadratic Formula"
2006-10-01 20:28:03 · answer #2 · answered by Sean 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
x(ax+b)+c
does x2 mean x squared?
2006-10-01 20:26:46 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋