Question

Use the table to answer the question.
Comparison of Algebraic
Expressions: Option 1, Option 2, and Option 3
Option 1: (x - 2) (x + 3) = 7
Option 2: X (x +3) = 0
Option 3: (x +3)2-1=0
It is only possible to use the Zero Product Property on one of the options in this table. Which option can the Zero Product Property be used on to find the zeros of the function?

Answer 1

Zero Product Property applies when a product equals 0. So use Option 2:

x(x + 3) = 0
=> x = 0 or x + 3 = 0 => x = −3.

(Option 1 equals 7, so ZPP doesn't apply as written. Option 3 can be factored: (x+3)^2 −1 = (x+2)(x+4) = 0, and then ZPP would give x = −2 or −4.)