SOLUTION: Completely factor the following: r(s) = 2s2 + st – 2s + t @ Normally, this would be solved by the “factor by grouping” method. However, this does not work here due to the last te

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Question 152512: Completely factor the following: r(s) = 2s2 + st – 2s + t
@ Normally, this would be solved by the “factor by grouping” method. However, this does not work here due to the last term being added, not subtracted.
a. r(s) = 2(s + t)(s – 1)
b. r(s) = (2s + t)(s – 1)
c. This cannot be factored; it’s prime
d. None of the above

Answer by Edwin McCravy(20055)   (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!

You're absolutely right.  To factor a 4-term problem by
grouping, either all four terms must have the same sign,
or else two positive terms and two negative terms.

So the answer is 

c. This cannot be factored; it’s prime 


Edwin
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