How do you factor the expression #2x^2 + 9x - 5 = 0#?

1 Answer
Richard G.
Mar 5, 2016

#(2x-1)(x+5)#

Explanation:

Open two sets of brackets.

The first expression, #2x^2# only has two possible factors, #2x# and #x#. Put them into the brackets. #(2x )(x )#

Multiply the first and last coefficients; -5 x 2 = -10. The factors of -10 are: -1, 10; -2, 5; 2, -5; and 1, -10. Add each. The first result is +9, which is the middle expression in the original question.

But one of your factors is #2x#, so divide by 2. --> #10/2=5#

Put into the brackets. #(2x - 1)(x+5)#

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