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Advanced Math / Nonlinear equations in one variable and systems of equations in two variables Difficulty: Medium

x 2 - 5 x - 24 = 0

What is the sum of the solutions to the given equation?

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Explanation

The correct answer is 5. The given quadratic equation can be rewritten in factored form as (x-8)(x+3)=0. Based on the zero product property, it follows that x-8=0 or x+3=0. Adding 8 to both sides of the equation x-8=0 yields x=8. Subtracting 3 from both sides of the equation x+3=0 yields x=-3. Therefore, the solutions to the given equation are 8 and -3. It follows that the sum of the solutions to the given equation is 8+(-3), or 5.