Question

In the equation x^2+10x+24=(x+a)(x+b), b is an integer. Find algebraically all possible values of b.

Answer 1

b = 4, b = 6

Explanation:

consider the left side

x² + 10x + 24

consider the factors of the constant term (+ 24) which sum to give the coefficient of the x- term (+ 10)

the factors are + 4 and + 6

then

x² + 10x + 24 = (x + 4)(x + 6) = (x + 6)(x + 4)

then (x + b) = (x + 4) or (x + 6)

with b = 4 or b = 6