Question

Factoring and solving polynomials?

Answer 1

What do you want to know about it?

Answer 2

I struggle with factoring in general. If I give you an equation could you walk me through the steps, perhaps?

Answer 3

I can walk you through, but I don't know any magical secrets to factoring. There are about three different ways to factor if I remember correctly. It's been a while.

Answer 4

The simpler of the two is 24x^2-8x.

Answer 5

Ok. The first thing that might make things look easier is to pull out a common factor of your coefficients. In this case, that means pulling an 8 out of 24 and 8.\[8(3x^2 - x)\]

Answer 6

Now, look at what can be pulled out in terms of variables. Both 3x^2 and x have an x in common.

Answer 7

Pull that out too, and you get: \[8x(3x-1)\]

Answer 8

Can either be pulled apart anymore?

Answer 9

no

Answer 10

You're asking me?

Answer 11

Yes.

Answer 12

Yes, I was asking you.

Answer 13

If they can't, you're done.

Answer 14

I only need Panther's help, dude.

Answer 15

About the only thing I really showed you out of that is take things at a snail's pace if you are new to it or don't have your confidence built up yet.

Answer 16

Eh

Answer 17

I have to take an algebra exam first thing tomorrow morning is all.

Answer 18

Just take it step by step. We could have simplified the coefficients and variables at the same time. Instead, by simplifying the coefficients first, it didn't require a lot of confusion in keeping up with too much. That's probably the best advice I can give you. I have to get back to work though. Good luck with your exam!

Answer 19

Don't leave!

Answer 20

D: