How do you factor x2+7x-2

Question

How do you factor x²+7x-2

Answer 1

Hi, Leah!

 

x^2+7x-2 cannot be factored.  The constant (c), which is 2, has only one pair of factors:  2 and 1.  No matter if either/both is positive or negative, 2 and 1 cannot be added or subtracted to make 7.  

 

This quadratic cannot be reduced.

 

Hope this helps!