Question

Factor f(x) = x^5 - 8x^4 + 16x^3

Answer 1

x^3(x-4)^2

Explanation:

x^3 is common to all three terms of f(x). Therefore,

f(x) = x^5 - 8x^4 + 16x^3 = x^3 (x^2 - 8 x + 16).

This last result can be factored further: x^3(x-4)^2