SOLUTION: Hi! I am working on problems involving polynomials. The problem is: Factor the polynomial 12x^3+5x^2-4x. On this particular polynomial problem, I do not know how to start fa

Algebra ->  Polynomials-and-rational-expressions -> SOLUTION: Hi! I am working on problems involving polynomials. The problem is: Factor the polynomial 12x^3+5x^2-4x. On this particular polynomial problem, I do not know how to start fa      Log On


   

Question 1153714: Hi!

I am working on problems involving polynomials.
The problem is: Factor the polynomial 12x^3+5x^2-4x. On this particular polynomial problem, I do not know how to start factoring it. What are the first steps that you have to take in order to factor this particular type of problem?
Thank you!
Found 2 solutions by ikleyn, MathLover1:
Answer by ikleyn(52803) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
.

The first step is to factor "x" out:


    12x^3+5x^2-4x = x*(12x^2 + 5x -4).


Answer by MathLover1(20850) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!

12x%5E3%2B5x%5E2-4x.....factor out x
x%2812x%5E2%2B5x-4%29...........12x%5E2%2B5x-4=x%2812x%2B5%29-4
x+%28x+%2812+x+%2B+5%29+-+4%29