SOLUTION: Please Factor: y^2-7y+21x-3xy

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Question 308770: Please Factor: y^2-7y+21x-3xy
Answer by rapaljer(4671) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
y%5E2-7y%2B21x-3xy

This is a factoring by grouping problem with a twist. It might be helpful to rewrite this switching the last two terms. You will see why when we do it.
y%5E2-7y-3xy%2B21x

Take out a factor of y from the first two terms, and a factor of -3x from the last two terms.
y%28y-7%29-3x%28y-7%29

Now, there is a common factor of (y-7):
%28y-7%29%28y-3x%29

Dr. Robert J. Rapalje, Retired
Seminole State College of Florida
Altamonte Springs Campus