Start by factoring the equation

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 74 views

Introduction

When it comes to solving equations, there are various methods and techniques that can be employed to find the solution. One such method is the zero product property, which 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 this article, we will explore how the zero product property can be used to solve an equation involving a rectangular patio.

The Problem

A rectangular patio measures 9 ft by 6 ft. When the length and width are increased by the same amount, the area becomes 88 sq ft. We are given the equation $$(6+x)(9+x)=88$$, and we need to find the value of $x$ using the zero product property.

Understanding the Equation

The given equation is a quadratic equation, which can be expanded as follows:

(6+x)(9+x) = 54 + 15x + 9x + x^2 = 54 + 24x + x^2

We can rewrite the equation as:

x^2 + 24x + 54 = 88

Subtracting 88 from both sides, we get:

x^2 + 24x - 34 = 0

Applying 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 this case, we can rewrite the equation as:

(x + 17)(x + 2) = 0

Using the zero product property, we can set each factor equal to zero and solve for $x$ :

x + 17 = 0 \Rightarrow x = -17

x + 2 = 0 \Rightarrow x = -2

Checking the Solutions

We need to check if the solutions $x = -17$ and $x = -2$ satisfy the original equation. Substituting $x = -17$ into the original equation, we get:

(6-17)(9-17) = (-11)(-8) = 88

This is true, so $x = -17$ is a valid solution.

Substituting $x = -2$ into the original equation, we get:

(6-2)(9-2) = (4)(7) = 28

This is not equal to 88, so $x = -2$ is not a valid solution.

Conclusion

In this article, we used the zero product property to solve an equation involving a rectangular patio. We started with the equation $$(6+x)(9+x)=88$$ and applied the zero product property to find the value of $x$ . We found that $x = -17$ is a valid solution, while $x = -2$ is not. This demonstrates the power of the zero product property in solving quadratic equations.

The Importance of the Zero Product Property

The zero product property is a fundamental concept in algebra that can be used to solve a wide range of equations. It is a powerful tool that can be used to find the solutions to quadratic equations, cubic equations, and even higher-degree equations. By understanding and applying the zero product property, students can develop a deeper understanding of algebra and improve their problem-solving skills.

Real-World Applications

The zero product property has many real-world applications in fields such as engineering, physics, and computer science. For example, in engineering, the zero product property can be used to design and optimize systems, such as bridges and buildings. In physics, the zero product property can be used to model and analyze the behavior of complex systems, such as electrical circuits and mechanical systems. In computer science, the zero product property can be used to develop and optimize algorithms, such as those used in machine learning and data analysis.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks for using the zero product property to solve equations:

Start by factoring the equation: Factoring the equation can help you identify the factors that are equal to zero.
Use the zero product property: Once you have factored the equation, use the zero product property to set each factor equal to zero and solve for the variable.
Check your solutions: Make sure to check your solutions to ensure that they satisfy the original equation.
Practice, practice, practice: The more you practice using the zero product property, the more comfortable you will become with it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the zero product property is a powerful tool that can be used to solve a wide range of equations. By understanding and applying the zero product property, students can develop a deeper understanding of algebra and improve their problem-solving skills. Whether you are a student or a professional, the zero product property is an essential tool that can be used to solve complex problems and make informed decisions.

Introduction

In our previous article, we used the zero product property to solve an equation involving a rectangular patio. We started with the equation $$(6+x)(9+x)=88$$ and applied the zero product property to find the value of $x$ . In this article, we will answer some common questions that students may have when it comes to using the zero product property to solve equations.

Q&A

Q: What is the zero product property?

A: The zero product property is a fundamental concept in algebra that 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.

Q: How do I apply the zero product property to solve an equation?

A: To apply the zero product property, you need to factor the equation and then set each factor equal to zero. Once you have set each factor equal to zero, you can solve for the variable.

Q: What if I have a quadratic equation that cannot be factored?

A: If you have a quadratic equation that cannot be factored, you can use the quadratic formula to solve for the variable. The quadratic formula is:

x = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}

Q: Can I use the zero product property to solve cubic equations?

A: Yes, you can use the zero product property to solve cubic equations. However, you need to be careful when factoring the equation, as it may have multiple factors.

Q: What if I have a rational equation that involves fractions?

A: If you have a rational equation that involves fractions, you can use the zero product property to solve for the variable. However, you need to be careful when simplifying the equation, as it may involve canceling out common factors.

Q: Can I use the zero product property to solve equations with complex numbers?

A: Yes, you can use the zero product property to solve equations with complex numbers. However, you need to be careful when working with complex numbers, as they may involve imaginary units.

Q: What if I have a system of equations that involves multiple variables?

A: If you have a system of equations that involves multiple variables, you can use the zero product property to solve for one or more of the variables. However, you need to be careful when solving the system, as it may involve multiple steps and substitutions.

Q: Can I use the zero product property to solve equations with absolute values?

A: Yes, you can use the zero product property to solve equations with absolute values. However, you need to be careful when working with absolute values, as they may involve multiple cases and substitutions.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks for using the zero product property to solve equations:

Start by factoring the equation: Factoring the equation can help you identify the factors that are equal to zero.
Use the zero product property: Once you have factored the equation, use the zero product property to set each factor equal to zero and solve for the variable.
Check your solutions: Make sure to check your solutions to ensure that they satisfy the original equation.
Practice, practice, practice: The more you practice using the zero product property, the more comfortable you will become with it.

Conclusion

Real-World Applications

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the zero product property is a fundamental concept in algebra that can be used to solve a wide range of equations. By understanding and applying the zero product property, students can develop a deeper understanding of algebra and improve their problem-solving skills. Whether you are a student or a professional, the zero product property is an essential tool that can be used to solve complex problems and make informed decisions.