Question

Factor completely Remember to look first for a common factor. Check by multiplying. If a polynomial is prime, state this.
2x^3 − 40x^3 + 192x

Answer 1

2x(x^2-20x^2+91)
2x(x-17)(x-3)

Answer 2

by the way, I think your second term should be -40x^2

Answer 3

Never mind I misread the expression, it is simpler than I thought.

Answer 4

how do you mean?

Answer 5

well, usually, you would have ax^3 + bx^2+ cx. Like radar said, if it's really -40x^3, it looks a bit too simple, no?

Answer 6

i don't know. The book has it 2x^3 − 40x^3. So does having it minus equal -40?

Answer 7

The first two terms can be combined: (unless there is a typo) getting:
-38x^3 + 192x
-2x(19x^2-96)

Answer 8

so is factoring just combining "like" terms?

Answer 9

That is far as it goes, I think

Answer 10

If there are like terms, you should combine them, then factor out and common factors that exist in the expression.

Answer 11

you're too quick for me @radar ;-)

Answer 12

Normally the don/t have similar terms, that is why I misread it.lol.

Answer 13

I have slowed down to a stop!

Answer 14

thank you both! I think I understand it a tad better!

Answer 15

the problem wanted you to check to multiply your result. Do you want to check?

Answer 16

yes. How do I do that?

Answer 17

O.K. Here is why I think it is a typo.
we had: -2x(19x^2-96)
multiplying we get: -38x^3 + 192x
The -38x^3 can be expressed as 2x^3-40x^3 + 192x
looks like the original.

Answer 18

The reason I think it is a typo is the two terms which have the x^3 in them. I think the second term was meant to be x^2, but I stuck with what was given.

Answer 19

Not sure if it was a typo because it was from my book. But thank you. I appreciate all the help! I was just lost looking at it!

Answer 20

It is a confusing problem, good luck with them.

Answer 21

thank you! You rock!

Answer 22

You're welcome.