Math  /  Algebra

QuestionFactor completely. If a polynomial is prime, state this. 20x35x20 x^{3}-5 x
Select the correct choice below and, if necessary, fill in the answer box within your choice. A. 20x35x=20 x^{3}-5 x= \square B. The polynomial is prime.

Studdy Solution

STEP 1

1. The polynomial given is 20x35x20x^3 - 5x.
2. We need to factor the polynomial completely.
3. A polynomial is considered prime if it cannot be factored further over the integers.

STEP 2

1. Identify and factor out the greatest common factor (GCF) from the polynomial.
2. Check if the resulting expression can be factored further.

STEP 3

Identify the greatest common factor (GCF) of the terms in the polynomial 20x35x20x^3 - 5x.
- The GCF of the coefficients 20 and 5 is 5. - The GCF of the variables x3x^3 and xx is xx.
Therefore, the GCF of the polynomial is 5x5x.

STEP 4

Factor out the GCF 5x5x from the polynomial:
20x35x=5x(4x21) 20x^3 - 5x = 5x(4x^2 - 1)

STEP 5

Check if the expression inside the parentheses 4x214x^2 - 1 can be factored further.
- Recognize 4x214x^2 - 1 as a difference of squares:
4x21=(2x)212 4x^2 - 1 = (2x)^2 - 1^2
- Apply the difference of squares formula: a2b2=(ab)(a+b)a^2 - b^2 = (a - b)(a + b).
(2x)212=(2x1)(2x+1) (2x)^2 - 1^2 = (2x - 1)(2x + 1)

STEP 6

Substitute the factored form of 4x214x^2 - 1 back into the expression:
20x35x=5x(2x1)(2x+1) 20x^3 - 5x = 5x(2x - 1)(2x + 1)
This is the completely factored form of the polynomial.
The correct choice is:
A. 20x35x=5x(2x1)(2x+1)20x^3 - 5x = 5x(2x - 1)(2x + 1)

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