Help solving for X in 2x - x^2 = -x

[havenoclu]

Man..been a long time since I've looked at a math problem. Can someone please help me solve for x in this equation:

2x - x^2 = -x

I would like to know each step. TIA!

 

[stapel]

A good first step might be to add x to either side. Then factor, and solve the linear factors.

Eliz.

 

[havenoclu]

oh man! all the way back to beginning algebra eh? haha. thanks for the quick reply.

so...

maybe something like...

2x - x^2 + x = 0 ???

 

[stapel]

...something like 2x - x^2 + x = 0 ?

Simplify: What is 2x + x?

Then factor.

Then use the "zero factor property" to solve the factors. (Reminder: If you multiply two things and get zero, what must at least one of the things be equal to?)

Eliz.

 

[havenoclu]

3x - x^2 = 0

I suppose something must be equal to 0?

 

[havenoclu]

Then use the "zero factor property" to solve the factors...

Using the "zero factor property" would make x=0??

3(0) - 0^2 = 0 ??

 

[stapel]

Or, one could try following the step-by-step instructions: Factor. Then apply the "zero FACTOR property" (explained previously) to solve the FACTORS.

Eliz.

 

[havenoclu]

Or, one could try following the step-by-step instructions: Factor. Then apply the "zero FACTOR property" (explained previously) to solve the FACTORS.

Eliz.

i forgot how to factor...but i suppose x=3...so how would i come to that by factoring?

 

[stapel]

i forgot how to factor...

This site has a free lesson which should help you study this topic:

. . . . .java-applet algebra lessons

Look in the right-hand column, and click on "Factoring Polynomials" and/or "Factoring Quadratics".

Eliz.