Solving the Equation (x + 2)(x + 8) = 0
This equation is a quadratic equation in factored form. To solve for x, we can use the Zero Product Property:
Zero Product Property: If the product of two or more factors is zero, then at least one of the factors must be zero.
Applying the Zero Product Property:
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Set each factor equal to zero:
- x + 2 = 0
- x + 8 = 0
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Solve for x in each equation:
- x = -2
- x = -8
Therefore, the solutions to the equation (x + 2)(x + 8) = 0 are x = -2 and x = -8.
Explanation:
The Zero Product Property tells us that if the product of two factors is zero, at least one of the factors must be zero. In this case, the factors are (x + 2) and (x + 8).
- If (x + 2) = 0, then x = -2 makes the entire equation true.
- If (x + 8) = 0, then x = -8 makes the entire equation true.
Therefore, both x = -2 and x = -8 are valid solutions to the equation.