Factor x^2-8x-48

Problem

x2−8*x−48

Solution

1. Identify the coefficients of the quadratic expression in the form a*x2+b*x+c where a=1 b=−8 and c=−48

2. Find two numbers that multiply to the constant term c=−48 and add to the linear coefficient b=−8

3. Test factor pairs of −48

−12⋅4=−48

−12+4=−8

4. Rewrite the expression using these two numbers as the constants in two binomial factors.

5. Verify the result by expanding (x−12)*(x+4) to ensure it equals x2−8*x−48

Final Answer

x2−8*x−48=(x−12)*(x+4)

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