Question

Factor completely:
1)) a^2 - a - 20
2)) x^2 - 5x - 14
3)) b^2 + 12b + 32

Answer 1

Here's a some hint to do these type of factoring problems:
1-If the last term is negative (like #1 and 2), your factors will most likely be of the form (x+y)(x-z)
2-If the last term is positive, then your factors will be of the form (x+y)(x+z) OR (x-y)(x-z)

Answer 2

So for example in #1, since the last term is -20, then your factors will look like this:
(a + ??)(a - ???)

Answer 3

now think of two numbers that multiply to -20 AND add up to -1....

Answer 4

Okay I got the first two I need help with the 3rd one

Answer 5

@ByteMe

Answer 6

ok.. since the last term is +32, your factors will look like this: (b + ??) (b + ???)

what two numbers can you think of that multiplies to 32 AND add up to 12 ?

Answer 7

Nvm I figured it out ! Thank you !

Answer 8

ok...