Problem 11 - Entrance Test

Solve the equation x^2 - 5x - 6 = 0 for x.

A. x = -1, x = 6B. x = 1, x = -6C. x = -1, x = -6D. x = 6, x = -1

Correct: A

To solve x^2 - 5x - 6 = 0, factor the left-hand side: (x - 6)(x + 1) = 0. This gives two equations: x - 6 = 0 and x + 1 = 0. Solving these gives x = 6 and x = -1.