I need help with algebra I'm not understanding it

Question

How do you solve (x+14)(x-3)=0

Answer 1

Dear Lamont,

 

Let's solve this bear together:  

 

The fact that (x + 14)*(x - 3) = 0 means that either (x + 14) or (x - 3) = 0 (or they both equal 0.

 

Now, in order for (x + 14) to be equal to zero:

 

x + 14 = 0

 

Isolate x on the left-hand side of the equation by subtracting 14 from both sides:

 

x = -14 is one of the "zeros" of the original function.  Similarly, if x - 3 = 0:

 

x - 3 = 0

 

add 3 to each side of the expression to get

 

x = 3.

 

That's all there is to it.  Write back if you're still confused.