SOLUTION: How do I factor each of these polynomials completely. x^3+x^2-x-1 and 3a-3b-xa+ax I know I have to group the factors. After that I get lost.

Algebra ->  Polynomials-and-rational-expressions -> SOLUTION: How do I factor each of these polynomials completely. x^3+x^2-x-1 and 3a-3b-xa+ax I know I have to group the factors. After that I get lost.      Log On


   

Question 305410: How do I factor each of these polynomials completely.
x^3+x^2-x-1 and 3a-3b-xa+ax
I know I have to group the factors. After that I get lost.
Answer by edjones(8007) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
x^3+x^2-x-1
=x^2(x+1)-(x+1)
=(x^2-1)(x+1)
.
3a-3b-xa+ax
=3(a-b) because -xa+ax=-ax+ax=0
.
Ed