Factor the expression, if possible. Factor out any GCF first (including −1 if the leading coefficient is negative). (If not possible, enter the original expression.)
5m^8 + 29m^4 − 42

Question

Factor the expression, if possible. Factor out any GCF first (including −1 if the leading coefficient is negative). (If not possible, enter the original expression.)
5m^8 + 29m^4 − 42

anonymous · Answer

Note that $5m^8+29m^4-42 = 5(m^4)^2+29(m^4)-42$.  If we make a change of variables, say $u=m^4$, then we end up with a quadratic expression $5u^2+29u-42.$

Try to factor this quadratic first, if possible.  Once you factor it, remember to resubstitute $m^4$ for $u$ and try to factor the remaining parts in terms of $m$.

Can you try to take things from here? :-)

anonymous · Answer

no @ChristopherToni

fibonaccichick666 · Answer

@ChristopherToni is correct.  Try it @ludvic