Factor x^2-2x-15

Problem

x2−2*x−15

Solution

1. Identify the coefficients of the quadratic expression in the form a*x2+b*x+c where a=1 b=−2 and c=−15

2. Find two numbers that multiply to c (which is −15 and add to b (which is −2.

3. Determine the factors by testing pairs of numbers: 3 and −5 satisfy both conditions because 3⋅(−5)=−15 and 3 + (-5) = -2$.

4. Write the expression in factored form (x+p)*(x+q) using the numbers found.

Final Answer

x2−2*x−15=(x−5)*(x+3)

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