Algebra help please? :)?

Question

could someone please explain how to factor the expression

x^-4x^2+5x-2

thanks so much!

xoxo nikki

Answer 1

Let's factor and solve it for x. Using synthetic division we start by using the little formula p/q where p equals the constant which in this case is -2, and q equals the leading coefficient which is 1.

p/q = +or- 1/1, 2/1

Trying +1: (1)^3 - 4(1)^2 + 5(1) - 2 = 0

1-4+5-2 = 0

0 = 0

So x=1 checks so we divide the equation by x-1 and we get

x^2 - 3x + 2 = 0

Which factors into

(x-2)(x-1) = 0

Which means that

x=2

x=1

Have a good day!

Answer 2

Well, that makes a big difference.

(x^3)-(4x^2)+(5x)-2

x(x^2+5) - 2(2x^2+1)

Answer 3

you need to include parentheses in your question. there is no way to know where they are supposed to go.