Question

How do you factor `x²-2x-8`?

Answer 1

`(x-4)(x+2)`

Explanation:

`x^2 - 2x - 8`

To factor something, we should first make sure that it is in the form of `ax^2 + bx + c` to make it easier, which this expression is in.

Then, we have to find two numbers that:

• Add up to `b` (or in this case, `-2`)
• Multiply up to `a * c` (or in this case, `1 * -8 = -8`

Those two numbers are `-4` and `2`:

• `-4 + 2 = -2`
• `-4 * 2 = -8`

Now we put them into factored form, which is: `(x-4)(x+2)`.

Hope this helps!