In Exercises 31–38, factor completely.3x⁴ + 54x³ + 135x²
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Step 1: Identify the greatest common factor (GCF) of the terms in the polynomial. In this case, the GCF is 3x².
Step 2: Factor out the GCF from each term in the polynomial. This means dividing each term by 3x².
Step 3: Write the polynomial as a product of the GCF and the resulting polynomial after factoring out the GCF.
Step 4: Check if the resulting polynomial can be factored further. Look for patterns such as a quadratic trinomial or special products.
Step 5: If further factoring is possible, apply the appropriate factoring technique (e.g., factoring by grouping, using the quadratic formula, or recognizing special products) to factor the polynomial completely.
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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 rewriting a polynomial expression as a product of simpler polynomials. This process is essential for simplifying expressions and solving equations. Common techniques include factoring out the greatest common factor (GCF), using special products, and applying methods like grouping or the quadratic formula when applicable.
The greatest common factor (GCF) is the largest factor that divides all terms in a polynomial. Identifying the GCF is the first step in factoring, as it allows for simplification of the polynomial. For the expression 3x⁴ + 54x³ + 135x², the GCF is 3x², which can be factored out to simplify the expression before further factoring.
Factoring by grouping is a method used when a polynomial has four or more terms. It involves grouping terms into pairs or sets, factoring out common factors from each group, and then factoring out any common binomial factors. This technique can be particularly useful for polynomials that do not have a straightforward GCF or when dealing with higher-degree polynomials.