Setting the First Binomial Equal to Zero

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 86 views

Introduction

In mathematics, equations are a fundamental concept that helps us understand the relationship between variables and constants. One of the most common types of equations is the quadratic equation, which can be solved using various methods. In this article, we will focus on solving a specific equation: ${$ (3x - 7)(2x + 8) = 0$}$. This equation is a product of two binomials, and we will use the zero-product property to solve it.

Understanding the Zero-Product Property

The zero-product property states that if the product of two or more factors is equal to zero, then at least one of the factors must be equal to zero. In other words, if ${$ ab = 0$}$, then either ${$ a = 0$}$ or ${$ b = 0$}$. This property is a fundamental concept in algebra and is used to solve equations involving products of factors.

Applying the Zero-Product Property to the Given Equation

Now that we have understood the zero-product property, let's apply it to the given equation: ${$ (3x - 7)(2x + 8) = 0$}$. According to the zero-product property, if the product of the two binomials is equal to zero, then at least one of the binomials must be equal to zero. Therefore, we can set each binomial equal to zero and solve for x.

Setting the First Binomial Equal to Zero

Let's start by setting the first binomial equal to zero: $ $3x - 7 = 0\$}$ . To solve for x, we can add 7 to both sides of the equation, which gives us ${$3x = 7$$. Next, we can divide both sides of the equation by 3, which gives us: ${$ x = \frac{7}{3}$}$.

Setting the Second Binomial Equal to Zero

Now, let's set the second binomial equal to zero: $ $2x + 8 = 0\$}$ . To solve for x, we can subtract 8 from both sides of the equation, which gives us ${$2x = -8$$. Next, we can divide both sides of the equation by 2, which gives us: ${$ x = -4$}$.

Conclusion

In this article, we have solved the equation ${$ (3x - 7)(2x + 8) = 0$}$ using the zero-product property. We have set each binomial equal to zero and solved for x, which gives us two possible solutions: ${$ x = \frac{7}{3}$}$ and ${$ x = -4$}$. These solutions are valid because they satisfy the original equation.

Tips and Tricks

When solving equations involving products of factors, always use the zero-product property.
Make sure to set each factor equal to zero and solve for the variable.
Check your solutions by plugging them back into the original equation.

Real-World Applications

Solving equations like ${$ (3x - 7)(2x + 8) = 0$}$ has many real-world applications. For example, in physics, we can use equations like this to model the motion of objects. In engineering, we can use equations like this to design and optimize systems. In economics, we can use equations like this to model the behavior of markets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't forget to use the zero-product property when solving equations involving products of factors.
Make sure to set each factor equal to zero and solve for the variable.
Check your solutions by plugging them back into the original equation.

Conclusion

$In conclusion, solving the equation ${$(3x - 7)(2x + 8) = 0\$}$ using the zero-product property is a straightforward process. By setting each binomial equal to zero and solving for x, we can find two possible solutions: ${$x = \frac{7}{3}\$}$ and ${$x = -4\$}$. These solutions are valid because they satisfy the original equation. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can solve equations like this with ease.<br/> **Solving the Equation: A Q&A Guide**$

Introduction

In our previous article, we solved the equation ${$ (3x - 7)(2x + 8) = 0$}$ using the zero-product property. In this article, we will answer some common questions that students often have when solving equations like this.

Q&A

Q: What is the zero-product property?

A: The zero-product property states that if the product of two or more factors is equal to zero, then at least one of the factors must be equal to zero. In other words, if ${$ ab = 0$}$, then either ${$ a = 0$}$ or ${$ b = 0$}$.

Q: How do I apply the zero-product property to solve equations?

A: To apply the zero-product property, you need to set each factor equal to zero and solve for the variable. For example, if you have the equation ${$ (3x - 7)(2x + 8) = 0$}$, you would set each binomial equal to zero and solve for x.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving equations using the zero-product property?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when solving equations using the zero-product property include:

Forgetting to set each factor equal to zero and solve for the variable.
Not checking your solutions by plugging them back into the original equation.
Not using the zero-product property when solving equations involving products of factors.

Q: How do I check my solutions?

A: To check your solutions, you need to plug them back into the original equation and make sure they satisfy the equation. For example, if you have the equation ${$ (3x - 7)(2x + 8) = 0$}$ and you find the solution ${$ x = \frac{7}{3}$}$, you would plug this value back into the original equation to make sure it satisfies the equation.

Q: What are some real-world applications of solving equations using the zero-product property?

A: Solving equations using the zero-product property has many real-world applications, including:

Modeling the motion of objects in physics.
Designing and optimizing systems in engineering.
Modeling the behavior of markets in economics.

Q: Can I use the zero-product property to solve equations with more than two factors?

A: Yes, you can use the zero-product property to solve equations with more than two factors. For example, if you have the equation ${$ (3x - 7)(2x + 8)(x + 5) = 0$}$, you would set each factor equal to zero and solve for x.

Q: What are some tips for solving equations using the zero-product property?

A: Some tips for solving equations using the zero-product property include:

Make sure to set each factor equal to zero and solve for the variable.
Check your solutions by plugging them back into the original equation.
Use the zero-product property when solving equations involving products of factors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, solving the equation ${$ (3x - 7)(2x + 8) = 0$}$ using the zero-product property is a straightforward process. By setting each binomial equal to zero and solving for x, we can find two possible solutions: ${$ x = \frac{7}{3}$}$ and ${$ x = -4$}$. These solutions are valid because they satisfy the original equation. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can solve equations like this with ease.

Additional Resources

For more information on solving equations using the zero-product property, check out our previous article on the topic.
For practice problems and exercises, try using online resources such as Khan Academy or Mathway.
For more advanced topics in algebra, check out our article on solving quadratic equations.