Can you solve for x in this equation?

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter DLxX
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the equation 4x² + x = 0, focusing on methods for isolating the variable x. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and problem-solving techniques.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks how to solve for x, expressing uncertainty about factoring when two x variables are present.
  • Another participant suggests factoring out x, leading to the equation x(4x + 1) = 0.
  • A later reply confirms the factorization and explains that for the product to equal zero, either factor must be zero, leading to the solutions x = 0 and 4x + 1 = 0.
  • One participant mentions obtaining -0.25 as a solution using the quadratic formula.
  • A final post indicates that the original poster figured out the solution before the page refreshed, implying some level of understanding was reached.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the method of factoring and the resulting solutions, although there is some variation in how the solutions are presented. The discussion remains focused on the problem without explicit disagreement.

Contextual Notes

Some participants may have differing levels of understanding regarding the quadratic formula and its application, but this is not explicitly stated.

Who May Find This Useful

Students or individuals seeking assistance with factoring quadratic equations and solving for variables in algebraic expressions.

DLxX
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How do I solve for x in the following question? I'm pretty sure you have to factor, but how do I solve for x with two x variables?

4x^2 + x = 0
 
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'x' is a common factor to both terms. Factor it out:

x(4x + 1) = 0


Do you know how to solve it now?
 
Ummm I am not too sure
 
Lol.
4x^2 + x = 0
from there, you can take out the x.
so.. x(4x+1)=0 since (that is equilivent to 4x^2 + x = 0 )
so now, you have (x) times (4x+1) equals 0, what do either have to be in order for the equation to equal 0?
0!
so you have x=0 and 4x+1=0
you solve for x, and you get 0,-1/4
 
0 or -0.25 via the "quadratic formula".
 
EDIT: Yup I figured it out before I refreshed the page lol. Thanks guys.
 

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