Factor x^2-2x-8

Problem

x2−2*x−8

Solution

1. Identify the coefficients of the quadratic expression in the form a*x2+b*x+c where a=1 b=−2 and c=−8

2. Find two numbers that multiply to c (which is −8 and add to b (which is −2.

3. Determine the factors by testing pairs of numbers that multiply to −8

(2)×(−4)=−8

2+(−4)=−2

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

Final Answer

x2−2*x−8=(x−4)*(x+2)

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