Question

Determine the factors of x2 − 8x − 12.

Answer 1

I don't think that's factorable. If 12 was positive, then it would have been.

Answer 2

What two factors of -12 give you -8?

Answer 3

I think it's either (x − 6)(x + 2) or (x + 6)(x − 2)

Answer 4

Did you multiply it out to see if you get back the original?

Answer 5

this equation you need to use quadratic formula

Answer 6

Well -6x+2x =?

Answer 7

because look your answer is (x-6)(x+2)
Seem like a very reasonable solution BUT when you FOIL them out you would get
x^2-4x-12

Answer 8

and for (x+6)(x-2) you FOIL them out to see what you get.

Answer 9

@Anhina I don't have that as an answer choice

Answer 10

I know so for this type of problem we can only use quadratic formula as factoring method.
Do you know the quadratic formula?

Answer 11

No

Answer 12

Yes because it is non-factorable

Answer 13

@purplec16 So it's prime ?

Answer 14

Yes

Answer 15

You're 1000000% sure? Lol, sorry but I need to bring my grade up :/

Answer 16

purplec16 is correct, it can't be factored

Answer 17

Yes and if you don't believe me let the computer tell you click the link:
http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=x2+%E2%88%92+8x+%E2%88%92+12

Answer 18

http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=Factor+x2+%E2%88%92+8x+%E2%88%92+12 this one

Answer 19

Thank You ((:

Answer 20

You're welcome!

Answer 21

All the best in bringing your grade up!