Factor 2x^3-8x

Problem

2*x^3−8*x

Solution

1. Identify the greatest common factor (GCF) of the terms 2*x^3 and 8*x

2. Factor out the GCF, which is 2*x from the expression.

2*x*(x^2−4)

3. Recognize that the expression inside the parentheses, x^2−4 is a difference of squares.

4. Apply the formula for the difference of squares, a^2−b^2=(a−b)*(a+b) where a=x and b=2

2*x*(x−2)*(x+2)

Final Answer

2*x^3−8*x=2*x*(x−2)*(x+2)

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