Question

Factor p(x) = 3x^3 – 12x

Answer 1

Take out a GCF (greatest common factor, which is 3x) factor what is left, (x^2 - 4)

Please respond if you understand, or if you need more help!

Answer 2

remmber
ab-ac=a(b-c)

a=GCF

so factor

3x^3=3*x*x*x
12x=2*2*3*x
gcf=3*x=3x

3x(x^2)-3x(4)=3x(x^2-4)
we can also factor the inner further
remember that a^2-b^2=(a+b)(a-b)
so
(x^2-4)=x^2-2^2=(x+2)(x-2)

fully factored is
3x(x+2)(x-2)