Factor 3x^2-8x+4

Problem

3*x2−8*x+4

Solution

1. Identify the coefficients a b and c from the quadratic expression a*x2+b*x+c where a=3 b=−8 and c=4

2. Find two numbers that multiply to a⋅c=3⋅4=12 and add to b=−8

3. Determine the pair of numbers, which are −6 and −2 since (−6)⋅(−2)=12 and −6+(−2)=−8

4. Rewrite the middle term −8*x using the two numbers found: 3*x2−6*x−2*x+4

5. Factor by grouping the first two terms and the last two terms: 3*x*(x−2)−2*(x−2)

6. Factor out the common binomial factor (x−2)

Final Answer

3*x2−8*x+4=(3*x−2)*(x−2)

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