Question 88508
Let the required number be n.
The product (X) of a number (n) and 4 less than the number (n-4) is (=) 96.
{{{n(n-4) = 96}}}
{{{n^2-4n = 96}}} Subtract 96 from both sides.
{{{n^2-4n-96 = 0}}} Solve this quadratic equation by factoring.
{{{(n-12)(n+8) = 0}}} Apply the zero products principle.
{{{n-12 = 0}}} or {{{n+8 = 0}}}
So...n = 12 or n = -8  Discard the negative solution.
The number is 12.
Check:
{{{12(12-4) = 96}}}
{{{12(8) = 96}}}
{{{96 = 96}}}