Multiple choice general knowledge math & puzzles

Twice a negative integer is eight less than its square. Find that number!

  1. 16

  2. -2

  3. 8

  4. -64
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Let the number be x (a negative integer). The problem states: 2x = x² - 8, or x² - 2x - 8 = 0. Factorizing: (x - 4)(x + 2) = 0. Since x must be negative, x = -2. Checking: 2(-2) = -4, and (-2)² - 8 = 4 - 8 = -4.

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