Find the smaller value of x that satisfies the equation x\(^2\) + 7x + 10 = 0
A
-5
B
-2
C
2
D
5
Verified Correct Answer: A.
Step-by-Step Mathematical Solution
x\(^2\) + 7x + 10 = 0
x2 + 5x + 2x + 10 = 0
x(x + 5) + 2(x + 5) = 0
(x + 2)(x + 5) = 0
x + 2 = 0 or x + 5 = 0
x = -2 or x = -5
the smaller value x = -5
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #36685)