To factor the expression 8x² + 12x, we will follow a systematic approach. Here’s how you can do it:
- Identify the Greatest Common Factor (GCF): The first step in factoring is to find the GCF of the coefficients and the variable terms. In this case, the coefficients are 8 and 12. The GCF of 8 and 12 is 4. Additionally, both terms have an x in them, so we can also factor out x.
- Factor out the GCF: Now, we can factor out 4x from the expression. This gives us:
8x² + 12x = 4x(2x + 3)
- Write the factored form: Therefore, the factored form of the expression 8x² + 12x is:
4x(2x + 3)
To summarize, the factored form of 8x² + 12x is 4x(2x + 3). This factorization makes it easier to analyze the expression for roots or other purposes, while also helping in simplifying mathematical operations involving this polynomial.