what 2 numbers multiply to -54 but adds to -3

Answer 1

Let "x" be the first number and let "y" be the second number

Then, because the "2 numbers multiply to -54" we can say x•y = -54

And, because "2 numbers add to -3", we can say x + y = -3 or x = -3 - y

Since x = "-3 - y", I can plug "-3 - y" in for "x" in my first equation x•y = -54:

x•y = -54

(-3 - y)•y = -54

-3y - y² = -54

y² + 3y - 54 = 0

(y + 9)(y - 6) = 0

y = -9 or y = 6

If y = -9, then (because x = -3 - y) x = -3 - (-9) = 6

If y = 6, then x = -3 - 6 = -9

So either the first number is -9 and the second is 6 or the first number is 6 and the second number is -9

Answer 2

-9 + 6 = -3

-9(6) = -54

-9 and 6 satisfy both conditions

Answer 3

6 and -9 work since 6*-9 = -54 and 6+(-9) = -3