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How do you factor #x^2-3x-10#?

Answer 1

Eva Abramson

#x^2-3x-10 = (x-5)(x+2)#

Given:

#x^2-3x-10#

Find a pair of factors of #10# which differ by #3#.

The pair #5, 2# works in that #5*2=10# and #5-2=3#

Hence we find:

#x^2-3x-10 = (x-5)(x+2)#

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Answer 2

Genesis Allen

To factor the expression ( x^2 - 3x - 10 ), you can use the method of decomposition or the quadratic formula. To use decomposition, find two numbers that multiply to ( -10 ) and add up to ( -3 ). The numbers are ( -5 ) and ( 2 ). Then, rewrite the middle term using these numbers and factor by grouping:

( x^2 - 5x + 2x - 10 ) ( = x(x - 5) + 2(x - 5) ) ( = (x + 2)(x - 5) )

So, ( x^2 - 3x - 10 ) factors as ( (x + 2)(x - 5) ).

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Answer from HIX Tutor

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.