Question

Completely factor 4a^2-12a+8

Answer 1

4(a - 2)(a - 1)

Explanation:

4a^2 - 12a + 8 =

First, factor out a common factor from all terms.

= 4(a^2 - 3a + 2)

To factor a^2 - 3a + 2, you need two numbers whose product is 2 and whose sum is -3. Since the product is a positive number, 2, the two numbers are either both positive or both negative. Since the sum is negative, -3, then both numbers must be negative. The two numbers are -1 and -2.

= 4(a - 2)(a - 1)

Answer 2

4(a-1)(a-2)

Explanation:

take out 4 (common factor)

4(a^2-3a+2)

then use box method to factor

a -1

a a^2 -a

-2 -2a 2

4(a-1)(a-2)