A curve with the equation y= -(x+p)(x+q) cuts the x-axis at the points A(-2,0) and B(6,0). Write down the values of p and q.

Question

unklerhaukus · Answer

the curve cuts the axis when y=0

anonymous · Answer

So sub A(-2,0) into the equation? I got stuck because there were too many unknowns :/

mertsj · Answer

Write a system of two equations.  For the first equation, replace x with -2 and y with 0.  For the second equation replace x with 6 and y with 0.  Now you have two equations with variables p and q.  Solve the system.

anonymous · Answer

I got stuck again. Ended up with q+p=-4 .

hartnn · Answer

p+q=-4 is correct, now substitute back in
pq+36+6(p+q)=0
to get pq=-12
can u find p and q knowing
p+q=-4 and pq= -12  ???

anonymous · Answer

yeah I got it (: Thank you!

hartnn · Answer

welcome :)