# Solving a simple equation

I am just starting to study physics and I found this equation:

$$\ x = 8 - {6t} + t^2$$

If possible please explain in a step by step.

Sorry if it's too simple.

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## migrated from physics.stackexchange.comMay 3 '13 at 13:20

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Hi Wahtever. Welcome to Physics.SE. This site deals with conceptual Physics Q&A. Please be advised that we don't encourage homework questions that doesn't involve any sort of work done by the author and asks other users to solve the problem. If you think you could clarify your question, add what you've done along with your question. We're ready to help you. If you aren't clear, Please have a look at our homework policy for more info. –  Waffle's Crazy Peanut May 3 '13 at 12:53
@CrazyBuddy - Thank you for the clarification, but i am not a student, i am using the MIT open course ware to study physics as a passion nothing else, Thank you –  Wahtever May 3 '13 at 12:57
Should that index t at the 6 be really an index? –  DaPhil May 3 '13 at 12:58
Sounds like you need the quadratic formula. –  Mike Dunlavey May 3 '13 at 12:59
Even if it's not a homework, it looks like some math problem to me. You can say where did you find that equation, atleast you can give it proper tags so that others can have an idea ;-) –  Waffle's Crazy Peanut May 3 '13 at 13:00

We rewrite $x=8-6t+t^2=t^2-6t+8=(t-2)(t-4)$, where the last step is obtained by factoring. Assuming you want to solve $x=0$, then either $t-2=0$ or $t-4=0$. This leads to the two solutions $t=2$ and $t=4$.