Factor 3x^3-12x

Problem

3*x3−12*x

Solution

1. Identify the greatest common factor by looking at the coefficients and the variables in both terms.

2. Factor out the GCF of 3*x from the expression.

3*x*(x2−4)

3. Recognize the difference of squares in the remaining binomial x2−4 which follows the pattern a2−b2=(a−b)*(a+b)

4. Factor the binomial using a=x and b=2

3*x*(x−2)*(x+2)

Final Answer

3*x3−12*x=3*x*(x−2)*(x+2)

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