i just need to solve this 1 problem and use it as an example on how to solve the rest

factor the polynominal
2x^2 - 9x + 4

i just need to see the steps so i can figure it out

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i have a problem with low self-esteem which is really ridiculous
when you consider how awesome i am

Jzbaby is the awesomest chick on Livewire

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(2x-1)(x-4) is the end result. I dont do steps, I just do it in my head. sorry.

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can u somehow explain so i can do it in my head?


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i have a problem with low self-esteem which is really ridiculous
when you consider how awesome i am

Jzbaby is the awesomest chick on Livewire

you know that it's going to be

(2x + 1?)(x + 2?)

and 1? * 2? = 4

thus (1? = 2? = 2 ) OR ( 1? = 4 AND 2? = 1 ) OR ( 1? = 1 AND 2? = 4 )

to make 2x * 2? + x * 1? = -9x

Try all three in your head. After practise you wont need to try all these options, you'l just see it.

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You could always crank out the quadratic formula to work out the roots, or do it in your head, or use a graphics calculator.  

you know that it's going to be

(2x + 1?)(x + 2?)

and 1? * 2? = 4

thus (1? = 2? = 2 ) OR ( 1? = 4 AND 2? = 1 ) OR ( 1? = 1 AND 2? = 4 )

to make 2x * 2? + x * 1? = -9x

Try all three in your head. After practise you wont need to try all these options, you'l just see it.  

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what do the question marks mean?


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i have a problem with low self-esteem which is really ridiculous
when you consider how awesome i am

Jzbaby is the awesomest chick on Livewire

2? = variable 2

lmao i haven't factored in hella long but aight. here's how i'd go about doing it.

you know it'll be

(2x )(x )
because that's the only way to get 2x^2

and that the two blanks will have to be factores of 4. that leaves 1, 2, and 4. They'll also have to multiply to a positive number (4), which means theyl'l either both be negative or both be positive.

you know that the right blank multiplied by 2, times the left blank [multiplied by 1] will have to = -9

so it's (2x - 1)(x - 4) because that's the only combination that meets the above requirements.

Post edited at 11:39 pm on Aug. 28, 2008 by matto

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