Question

The diagram represents the factorization of x2 – 9x + 18. It is partially completed.

A 2-column table with 2 rows. First column is labeled x with entries x squared, question mark. Second column is labeled negative 3 with entries question mark, 18. First row is labeled x with entries x squared, question mark. Second row is labeled negative 6 with entries question mark, 18.

Which two terms are missing from the diagram?

–x and –8x
–2x and –7x
–3x and –6x
–4x and –5x

Answer 1

-3x and -6x

Reason: You need two numbers that multiply to 18 and add to -9; -3 and -6 work. The trinomial factors as (x - 3)(x - 6).