Question

How do you factor the expression `m^2 - 5m - 24`?

Answer 1

(m + 3)(m - 8)

Explanation:

`y = m^2 - 5m - 24.`
Find 2 numbers knowing sum (-5) and product (-24). These 2 numbers have opposite signs because ac < 0.
Factor pairs of (-24) -->...(-3, 8)(3, -8). This sum is (- 5), then these 2 numbers are: 3 and -8.
y = (m + 3)(m - 8)