Question

What is the factored form of b2 – 4b – 32?

(b – 8)(b – 4)


(b – 8)(b + 4)


(b + 8)(b – 4)


(b + 8)(b + 4)

Answer 1

(b – 8)(b + 4)

Explanation:

The signs of the binomial constants must be different in order for their product to be -32.

The one with the larger magnitude must be negative in order for their sum to be -4. The only viable choice is (b -8)(b +4).