Question

Solve the following quadratic equation by factoring.

Answer 1

Answer:  x = -2 or x = 7  (choice D)

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Work Shown:

x^2 - 5x = 14

x^2 - 5x - 14 = 0

(x-7)(x+2) = 0 .... this step is further explained below

x-7 = 0 or x+2 = 0

x = 7 or x = -2

The order of the solutions does not matter.

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To factor x^2-5x-14, we need to find two numbers that multiply to -14 and add to -5. This is done through trial and error. I recommend making a table to help organize everything. See the diagram below.

After a bit of guess work, you should find that -7 and 2 are the two values we're after

-7 + 2 = -5

-7 * 2 = -14

This is why x^2-5x-14 = (x-7)(x+2)

Answer 2

Answer:

x = 7, -2

Step-by-step explanation:

Factor and set each factor equal to 0