factoring: solve f(x) = X^2-10X+25 by factoring

[kortness]

I do not know if i am doing this problem correctly. will you please look over it and help me understand if i got it wrong (and y) please and thanks!
The directions say "solve by factoring. Indicate multiple answers by stating multiplicity."

1.) f (x) = X^2-10X+25
(X-5)^2
(X-5)(X-5)

answer: (X-5) multiplicity 2

 

[scrum]

Re: factoring

I think you're doing it right but don't you need to go one step and find the zeros?

so the final answer would be 5. is this what the book says.

 

[kortness]

Re: factoring

it didnt exactly say find the zeros so that is what confused me! I dont know because it said "factor" and didn't say anything about the root. (would i find the zeros?)

 

[Loren]

The key word is "solve". That means to find the value(s)of x that make the equation true.

 

[stapel]

The key word is "solve". That means to find the value(s)of x that make the equation true.

Unfortunately, the "equation" is "f(x) = (quadratic)", which, by definition, is going to be true for every value of x. :shock:

If the instructions had said something sensible, such as "find the zeroes (roots) of the following function", then the intention would have been more clear. :wink:

Eliz.