CramX Logo

Q
QuestionMathematics

What is the factored form of x^2−x−2?
12 months agoReport content

Answer

Full Solution Locked

Sign in to view the complete step-by-step solution and unlock all study resources.

Step 1:
I'll solve this step-by-step using polynomial factoring techniques:

Step 2:
: Identify the polynomial

- Here, $$a = 1$$, $$b = -1$$, and $$c = -2
- This is a standard quadratic in the form ax^{2} + bx + c

Step 3:
: Find two numbers that multiply to ac and add to b

* $$2 + (-3) = -1
- We need to find two numbers that: - By testing, we find 2 and - 3 work:

Step 4:
: Rewrite the middle term using these numbers

x^{2} - x - 2 = x^{2} + 2x - 3x - 2

Step 5:
: Group the terms

(x^{2} + 2x) + (-3x - 2)

Step 6:
: Factor by grouping

x(x + 2) - 1(3x + 2)

Step 7:
: Factor out the common terms

(x - 1)(x + 2)

Final Answer

x^{2} - x - 2 = (x - 1)(x + 2)