Question

A mix of factoring by grouping. Factor the exressions. 17ax+17a-x-1 Please explain/show steps on how to do this!

*edit: I know the answer to the problem because it was said aloud in a class, but I am not sure the steps to get there!

Answer 1

`(x+1)(17a-1)`

Explanation:

We are given that

`17ax+17a-x-1`

We have to factorize the given expression.

Pair up the terms

`(17ax+17a)+(-x-1)`

Now, taking common factor

`17a(x+1)-1(x+1)`

Taking common (x+1)

`(x+1)(17a-1)`

Now, we get

`(x+1)(17a-1)`

This is required factors of given expression.