Solve the following equation by factoring: x^2 - 2x - 48 = 0

Answer choices:

A. x=-4 or x=12

B. x=-6 or x=8

C. x=-48 or x=1

D. x=-2 or x=24

B. x=-6 or x=8

Step-by-step explanation:

To solve this, factor the equation x^2-2x-48. Since - 48 is negative, one of the factors has to be negative and one has to be positive. Since the coefficient of x is - 2, the factors have to sum to - 2. Trying factors, we realize that (x-8) (x+6) = 0 works. Solving, x-8=0 and x+6=0, or x=8 or x=-6.