Question

factor completely.
$x^2 - 5x - 24$
enter your answer in the box.

Explanation:

Step1: Find pair of factors of -24

We need two numbers that multiply to $-24$ and add to $-5$. The numbers are $-8$ and $3$, since $(-8) \times 3 = -24$ and $(-8) + 3 = -5$.

Step2: Split middle term and factor

Rewrite the quadratic using the pair, then factor by grouping:
$x^2 - 8x + 3x - 24 = x(x - 8) + 3(x - 8) = (x - 8)(x + 3)$

Answer:

$(x - 8)(x + 3)$