Question

Is it possible to factor `y=x^2-8x+3`? If so, what are the factors?

Answer 1

Yes, it is possible. The factors are `(4+sqrt13)` and `(4-sqrt13)`.

Explanation:

`y=x^2-8x+3`

Using the quadratic formula,

`x=(-(-8)+-sqrt((-8)^2-4(1)(3)))/(2(1))`
`color(white)(x)=(8+-sqrt52)/2`
`color(white)(x)=(8+-2sqrt13)/2`
`color(white)(x)=4+-sqrt13`

`y=(4+sqrt13)(4-sqrt13)`

:D