Algebra 2 problem help

Question

Determine the solution for x.

P(x) = x(x + 1)(x - 7)

The answer options:

1) x = -1, x = 7

2) x = 1, x = -1, x = 7

3) x = 0, x = 1, x = -7

4) x = 0, x = -1, x = 7

 

Please explain. 

Thank you.

Answer 1

David, the solution is what makes P(x) = 0, which means that any or all of our three factors need to equal 0.

 

x = 0. Easy

 

x + 1 = 0

       x = -1

 

x - 7 = 0

     x = 7

 

D is your answer.