Factor X 2 2x 63

Decoding Factor X: A Deep Dive into 2x² + 2x - 63

Understanding quadratic equations is crucial for anyone navigating higher-level mathematics, from algebra to calculus. This article delves into the factorization of the quadratic expression 2x² + 2x - 63, exploring various methods, providing step-by-step explanations, and offering insights into the underlying mathematical principles. We'll cover not just how to factor this expression but also why these methods work, equipping you with a comprehensive understanding.

Introduction: Understanding Quadratic Equations and Factorization

A quadratic equation is an equation of the form ax² + bx + c = 0, where 'a', 'b', and 'c' are constants, and 'a' is not equal to zero. The expression 2x² + 2x - 63 is a quadratic expression, meaning it doesn't include an equals sign. Factorization, in this context, means breaking down the expression into a product of simpler expressions, typically two binomial expressions. This process is essential for solving quadratic equations, simplifying expressions, and understanding the roots (or solutions) of the equation.

The goal of factoring 2x² + 2x - 63 is to find two binomial expressions (expressions with two terms) that, when multiplied together, yield the original quadratic expression. This will be in the form (Ax + B)(Cx + D), where A, B, C, and D are constants we need to determine.

Method 1: AC Method (Factoring by Grouping)

The AC method is a systematic approach to factoring quadratic expressions. It's particularly useful when the coefficient of x² (in this case, 2) is not 1. Here's how it works for 2x² + 2x - 63:

1. Identify a, b, and c: In our expression, a = 2, b = 2, and c = -63.

2. Find the product ac: ac = 2 * (-63) = -126.

3. Find two numbers that add up to b and multiply to ac: We need two numbers that add up to 2 and multiply to -126. After some trial and error (or using a systematic approach), we find that 14 and -12 satisfy this condition (14 + (-12) = 2 and 14 * (-12) = -126).

4. Rewrite the expression: Rewrite the middle term (2x) using the two numbers we found:

   2x² + 14x - 12x - 63

5. Factor by grouping: Group the terms in pairs and factor out the greatest common factor (GCF) from each pair:

   2x(x + 7) - 12(x + 7)

6. Factor out the common binomial: Notice that (x + 7) is a common factor in both terms. Factor it out:

   (x + 7)(2x - 12)

7. Simplify (if possible): In this case, we can further simplify the second binomial by factoring out a 2:

   2(x + 7)(x - 6)

Therefore, the factored form of 2x² + 2x - 63 is 2(x + 7)(x - 6).

Method 2: Trial and Error

This method involves systematically trying different combinations of binomial factors until you find the correct one. While it might seem less structured than the AC method, it can be faster with practice.

We know the factored form will be something like (Ax + B)(Cx + D). Since the coefficient of x² is 2, A and C must multiply to 2. The most likely possibilities are 2 and 1. Then, we consider the constant term, -63. We need to find factors of -63 such that the outer and inner terms add up to 2x. Let’s try some combinations:

• (2x + 7)(x - 9): This gives 2x² - 11x - 63 (Incorrect)
• (2x - 7)(x + 9): This gives 2x² + 11x - 63 (Incorrect)
• (2x + 9)(x - 7): This gives 2x² - 5x - 63 (Incorrect)
• (2x - 9)(x + 7): This gives 2x² + 5x - 63 (Incorrect)
• (2x + 21)(x - 3): This gives 2x² + 15x -63 (Incorrect)
• (2x - 21)(x + 3): This gives 2x² -15x -63 (Incorrect)
• (2x - 12)(x + 7): This simplifies to 2(x-6)(x+7) (Correct, same as AC Method result)

After testing several combinations, we arrive at the correct factorization: 2(x + 7)(x - 6). Notice that this is the same result obtained using the AC method.

Method 3: Using the Quadratic Formula (Indirect Factorization)

While not a direct factorization method, the quadratic formula can help us find the roots of the corresponding quadratic equation (2x² + 2x - 63 = 0). These roots can then be used to construct the factored form.

The quadratic formula is: x = [-b ± √(b² - 4ac)] / 2a

For our equation, a = 2, b = 2, and c = -63. Substituting these values:

x = [-2 ± √(2² - 4 * 2 * -63)] / (2 * 2) x = [-2 ± √(4 + 504)] / 4 x = [-2 ± √508] / 4 x = [-2 ± 2√127] / 4 x = [-1 ± √127] / 2

Therefore, the roots are x = (-1 + √127)/2 and x = (-1 - √127)/2.

These roots can be used to write the factored form as: 2(x - ((-1 + √127)/2))(x - ((-1 - √127)/2)). While this is technically correct, it's not as simplified and easily understood as the factored forms obtained using the AC method or trial and error. It demonstrates that even though the Quadratic Formula doesn't directly give the factored form, it verifies the roots of the equation and can be indirectly used to find it.

Understanding the Significance of Factorization

Factoring quadratic expressions is more than just a mathematical exercise; it has significant implications:

• Solving Quadratic Equations: Once factored, setting each factor to zero allows us to easily solve the corresponding quadratic equation. For example, 2(x + 7)(x - 6) = 0 implies x = -7 or x = 6. These are the roots or zeros of the equation.

• Simplifying Expressions: Factorization simplifies complex expressions, making them easier to manipulate and understand. This is essential in calculus and other advanced mathematical fields.

• Graphing Parabolas: The factored form of a quadratic expression directly reveals the x-intercepts (where the parabola crosses the x-axis) of the corresponding parabola. These intercepts are the roots of the equation, -7 and 6 in our case.

• Applications in Real-World Problems: Quadratic equations and their solutions are applied in various real-world problems, including projectile motion, optimization problems, and area calculations. Factorization is an integral part of solving these problems efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: Is there only one way to factor a quadratic expression?

  A: No. While there might be multiple ways to factor a given expression, all correct factorizations will ultimately lead to the same simplified form. The AC method and trial and error, although different in approach, yielded the same result in this example.

• Q: What if I can't find the factors easily?

  A: If you're struggling to find the factors using the AC method or trial and error, consider using the quadratic formula to find the roots. These roots will then help you construct the factored form, albeit in a less simplified format.

• Q: What happens if the quadratic expression is prime (cannot be factored)?

  A: Some quadratic expressions cannot be factored using integers. In these cases, the quadratic formula will still provide the roots, and the expression remains in its original form.

Conclusion: Mastering Quadratic Factorization

This comprehensive exploration of factoring 2x² + 2x - 63 has demonstrated multiple methods, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. The AC method provides a systematic approach, while trial and error can be quicker with practice. The quadratic formula, though indirect for factorization, confirms the roots and provides an alternative approach. Mastering these techniques is vital for success in higher-level mathematics and understanding the numerous applications of quadratic expressions in various fields. Remember that practice is key—the more you work with quadratic expressions, the more proficient you'll become at recognizing patterns and efficiently finding their factors. Understanding the underlying principles, however, is just as important as the procedural skills themselves. This deeper understanding will allow you to approach more complex algebraic problems with confidence and expertise.