Question

Factor 4a^2-8ab-3a+6b

Answer 1

@jim_thompson5910

Answer 2

Re-write as:

4a^2 - 3a - 8ab + 6b (This is legal because of the commutative property)

Next factor the first two terms, then the last two terms. If you need help let me know.

Answer 3

Do you mean like (4a^2-3a)(-8ab+6b)? @Hero

Answer 4

Well, no because 4a^2 - 3a - 8ab + 6b is not equivalent to (4a^2-3a)(-8ab+6b). Factoring implies using the distributive property to express terms as a multiplication of prime factors.

Answer 5

In this case, process involves finding numbers or variables that are common to each term and extracting them from the original expression.

Answer 6

So a for the first one and 2b for the second?

Answer 7

Close...

a for the first one and -2b for the second.

Answer 8

okay, so how would I write that? a(4a-3)-2b(4a-3)?

Answer 9

Nice. Now, notice that 4a-3 is common to each factorization. So you have to factor that out as well.

Answer 10

how?

Answer 11

let c = 4a - 3
then you have
ac - 2bc

Factor ac - 2bc

Answer 12

c(a-2b) so it's (4a-3)(a-2b)? I think....?

Answer 13

Correct

Answer 14

Thanks! It's been a while since I've done factoring like this and I just started a new math class that is technically a lower level than my prerequisites... It's just college level instead of High School

Answer 15

You're welcome. Good luck with everything.

Answer 16

Thanks!