Q:

The partial factorization of x2 – 3x – 10 is modeled with algebra tiles. Which unit tiles are needed to complete the factorization? 2 negative unit tiles 2 positive unit tiles 5 negative unit tiles 5 positive unit tiles

Accepted Solution

A:
x² - 3x - 10

x² = x * x
10 can be factored:
1 x 10 ⇒⇒⇒ difference between factors = 9
2 x 5   ⇒⇒⇒ difference between factors = 3  ⇒ (The correct pair)

(x-5)(x+2) = x(x+2) - 5(x+2)
                 = x² + 2x - 5x - 10
                 = x² - 3x - 10

∴ x - 5 = 0  ⇒⇒⇒ x = 5
   x + 2 = 0  ⇒⇒⇒ x = -2

I have attached algebra tiles for the given equation.