Factor x^2-4x-5

Problem

x2−4*x−5

Solution

1. Identify the coefficients of the quadratic expression in the form a*x2+b*x+c where a=1 b=−4 and c=−5

2. Find two numbers that multiply to c (which is −5 and add to b (which is −4.

3. Determine the factors by testing pairs: the numbers 1 and −5 satisfy both conditions because (1)*(−5)=−5 and 1 + (-5) = -4$.

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

Final Answer

x2−4*x−5=(x−5)*(x+1)

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