SOLUTION: factor the polynomials using whatever strategy seems appropriate. State what methods you will use and then demonstrate the methods on your problems, explaining the process as you g

Algebra ->  Polynomials-and-rational-expressions -> SOLUTION: factor the polynomials using whatever strategy seems appropriate. State what methods you will use and then demonstrate the methods on your problems, explaining the process as you g      Log On


   

Question 798245: factor the polynomials using whatever strategy seems appropriate. State what methods you will use and then demonstrate the methods on your problems, explaining the process as you go. Discuss any particular challenges those particular polynomials posed for the factoring.
1-xy-20x^2y^2
*I have NO idea the steps that are taken in factoring this. all the examples in the book look nothing like this so I am completely lost* please and thank you.
Answer by stanbon(75887) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
1-xy-20x^2y^2
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Think of 2 numbers whose product is A*C = -20*1 and whose sum is B = -1
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The numbers are -5 and +4
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Substitute -5xy+4xy for -xy to get:
1 -5xy+4xy -20x^2y^2
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Factor the 1st 2 and the last 2 terms separately to get:
= (1-5xy) + 4xy(1-5xy)
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Factor again to get::
= (1-5xy)(1+4xy)
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Cheers,
Stan H.
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