Factor x^2-3x-4

Problem

x2−3*x−4

Solution

1. Identify the coefficients of the quadratic expression in the form a*x2+b*x+c where a=1 b=−3 and c=−4

2. Find two numbers that multiply to a⋅c=−4 and add to b=−3

3. Determine the factors by testing pairs: the numbers −4 and 1 satisfy both conditions because (−4)*(1)=−4 and −4+1=−3

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

Final Answer

x2−3*x−4=(x−4)*(x+1)

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