Question

factor plzzz 8x^3 + 4x^2 - 2x - 1

Answer 1

Have you tried grouping? It can be a useful last resort prior to punting.

Take the first two separately

8x^3 + 4x^2
4x^2 (2x + 1)

Take the second two separately.

- 2x - 1
-(2x+1)

Putting it back together

4x^2 (2x + 1) - (2x+1)

Do you now see how to proceed?

Answer 2

no?

Answer 3

Now, you have two terms. Both terms have (2x+1) as a factor.

Now do you see it?

Answer 4

ya but what do i do?

Answer 5

Factor it, just like any other factoring.

(4x^2 - 1)(2x + 1)

Stare at that for a little while until you see it.

After that, decide if there is more to factor or if we are done factoring.

Answer 6

Did you decide if this is done?

Answer 7

more right?

Answer 8

Yes. What part?

Answer 9

2x

Answer 10

"2x" isn't a part to be considered. You must consider ONLY the FACTORS of the expression. Can you identify the factors? There are two of them.

Answer 11

Well, it's past my bedtime.

(2x+1) -- No more factoring.
(4x^2 - 1) -- More factoring. You should recognize the difference of squares.

Good luck.

Answer 12

breaks down into (2x+1)(2x-1)

Answer 13

and the last one you had (2x+1)