Factorising Simple Quadratic Equations
The easiest way to solve quadratic equations is by factorising when the coefficient of x² is 1. For an equation like x² + 5x + 6 = 0, you need to find two numbers that multiply to give c (the constant term) and add to give b (the coefficient of x).
Take x² + 5x + 6 = 0 as an example. List all the factor pairs of 6: (1,6), (2,3), , . The pair that adds up to 5 is 2 and 3, so you get x + 2$$x + 3 = 0.
Once you've factorised, set each bracket equal to zero: = 0 gives x = -2, and = 0 gives x = -3. Always check your answers by substituting back into the original equation!
Top Tip: When factorising, remember that if c is positive and b is positive, both numbers in your factor pair will be positive. If c is positive and b is negative, both numbers will be negative.
