factor this:
x^8-98x^4+1

I dont want just the answer I want to see steps to how to get the answer

Question

factor this:
x^8-98x^4+1

I dont want just the answer I want to see steps to how to get the answer

anonymous · Answer

if you make b = x^4 what is the equation you'd have ?

anonymous · Answer

b^2 - 98b + 1
so whay do you do next?

anonymous · Answer

it becomes a quadratic

anonymous · Answer

plug it into the quadratic formula or complete the square

anonymous · Answer

okay when you complete the square you get this
(b-49)^2 -2400 
what do you do next?

anonymous · Answer

i think that once you solve for b, plug x^4 back in

anonymous · Answer

sorry i want it to be perfectly factored in the form
(x+a)(x+b)

anonymous · Answer

hmmmm

anonymous · Answer

srry man im lost...im still learning this stuff too..i was trying to figure it out while you were

anonymous · Answer

yea its fine thanks for helping

anonymous · Answer

um...use the general factor form.
$$(x^2 - \frac{ -b + \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac} }{ 2a })(x^2 - \frac{ -b - \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac} }{ 2a })$$
where a=1, b=-98, c=1. voila!

anonymous · Answer

oh yeah forgot about that lol

anonymous · Answer

Though it's quite ugly, it's reliable. lol 
Good luck! :)