Factor x^2-3x-10

Problem

x2−3*x−10

Solution

1. Identify the coefficients of the quadratic expression in the form a*x2+b*x+c where a=1 b=−3 and c=−10

2. Find two numbers that multiply to a*c=−10 and add to b=−3

3. Determine the factors by testing pairs of numbers: the numbers −5 and 2 satisfy both conditions since (−5)*(2)=−10 and −5+2=−3

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

Final Answer

x2−3*x−10=(x−5)*(x+2)

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