Factoring 28s^2 + 8st - 20t^2: A Simplified Explanation and Solution

  • Thread starter Thread starter Rowah
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Factoring
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on factoring the quadratic expression 28s^2 + 8st - 20t^2. The correct factorization is established as 4(7s - 5t)(s + t). Participants explore various methods to simplify the expression, ultimately leading to the realization that combining terms effectively can clarify the factoring process. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing patterns in polynomial expressions to facilitate easier factorization.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of polynomial expressions and their properties
  • Familiarity with factoring techniques for quadratic equations
  • Knowledge of combining like terms in algebra
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
NEXT STEPS
  • Study advanced factoring techniques for polynomials
  • Learn about the quadratic formula and its applications
  • Explore the concept of completing the square
  • Practice factoring higher-degree polynomials
USEFUL FOR

Students studying algebra, educators teaching polynomial factorization, and anyone seeking to improve their skills in simplifying and factoring quadratic expressions.

Rowah
Messages
17
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



28s^2 + 8st - 20t^2

The answer in the back of the book is 4(7s - 5t)(s + t)

2. The attempt at a solution

4(7s^2 + st + st - 5t^2)
4(7s^2 + st + st - 20t^2)
4(s(7s + t) + t(s - 20t))

I'm lost, can someone please help me?

Thanks in advance.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
In your first attempt at the solution, why not combine the second and third terms inside the (), it might make things more obvious.
 
Is there some trick to this that I am missing?

4(7s^2 + 2st - 5t^2)
 
Well, you could note that 2st=7st-5st, which makes your expression 4(7s2+7st-5st-5t2). Is this any easier to factorise?
 
OHH OHH OHHHH OHHHHHH!

Oh my god, how could I be so blind? That t^2 at the end threw me off. I feel like such an idiot. Thanks a billion cristo and robb, and I apologize for wasting your time :)
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
7K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K