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How do you solve a quadratic equation by factorising?
Maths
National 5

How do you solve a quadratic equation by factorising?

To solve a quadratic equation by factorising, first rearrange it so one side equals zero. Factorise the quadratic into two brackets. Then set each bracket equal to zero and solve. This works because a product is zero only when one of its factors is zero. Most quadratics have two solutions. Example: Solve x² + 5x = −6 Rearrange so one side equals zero: x² + 5x + 6 = 0 Factorise. Find two numbers that multiply to 6 and add to 5 (2 and 3): (x + 2)(x + 3) = 0 Set each bracket to zero: x + 2 = 0 or x + 3 = 0 Answer: x = −2 or x = −3 Check: (−2)² + 5(−2) = −6 ✓

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