ACT Math : How to factor the quadratic equation

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for ACT Math

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Example Questions

Example Question #11 : How To Factor The Quadratic Equation

What are the two solutions to the following quadratic equation? 

\displaystyle 3x^{2} - 6x - 24

Possible Answers:

\displaystyle x=-2 and \displaystyle x=2

\displaystyle x=-2 and \displaystyle x=-2

\displaystyle x=-2 and \displaystyle x=4

\displaystyle x=-4 and \displaystyle x=2

\displaystyle x=2 and \displaystyle x=2

Correct answer:

\displaystyle x=-2 and \displaystyle x=4

Explanation:

The equation can be factored.

First pull out a common factor of three from each term.

 \displaystyle 3x^2 -6x-24 = 3(x^2 -2x -8).

Now, find the factors of the constant term that when added together result in the middle term.

\displaystyle = 3(x-4)(x+2)

The roots are what values will make the equation equal \displaystyle 0.  

Therefore, the answers are \displaystyle x=4 and \displaystyle x=-2.

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