In Exercises 23–48, factor completely, or state that the polynomial is prime.8x² + 8y²
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Identify the common factor in the polynomial. In this case, both terms have a common factor of 8.
Factor out the common factor from the polynomial: \(8(x^2 + y^2)\).
Examine the expression inside the parentheses, \(x^2 + y^2\), to see if it can be factored further.
Recognize that \(x^2 + y^2\) is a sum of squares, which cannot be factored further over the real numbers.
Conclude that the polynomial is factored completely as \(8(x^2 + y^2)\).
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Factoring Polynomials
Factoring polynomials involves expressing a polynomial as a product of its factors. This process is essential for simplifying expressions and solving equations. Common techniques include finding the greatest common factor, using special products like the difference of squares, and applying methods such as grouping or trial and error for more complex polynomials.
The sum of squares refers to an expression of the form a² + b², which cannot be factored over the real numbers. In the case of the polynomial 8x² + 8y², it can be factored out as 8(x² + y²), but the term x² + y² remains unfactorable in the real number system, indicating that the original polynomial is not completely factorable.
Solving Quadratic Equations by Completing the Square
Prime Polynomials
A prime polynomial is one that cannot be factored into the product of two non-constant polynomials with real coefficients. Recognizing whether a polynomial is prime is crucial in algebra, as it determines the methods used for solving equations or simplifying expressions. In this case, since 8x² + 8y² simplifies to 8(x² + y²) and x² + y² is prime, the original polynomial is also considered prime.