MHB Factoring Polynomials: Start Here

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on factoring the polynomial expression $m^8-n^8-2m^6n^2+2n^6m^2$. Participants suggest starting with the difference of squares and factoring out common terms. The conversation progresses through various attempts, leading to the factorization $(m-n)^{3}(m+n)^{3}(m^2+n^2)$. This final factorization is confirmed as correct by multiple contributors. The thread emphasizes collaborative problem-solving in polynomial factoring.
paulmdrdo1
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how would i start factoring this

$m^8-n^8-2m^6n^2+2n^6m^2$
 
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Re: factoring polynomial

You really need to post your attempts at these, this way we can see where you are at. :D

I would look at factoring the first two terms as the difference of squares, and the last two terms have a common factor as well (I would factor out $-2m^2n^2$)...what do you get?
 
Re: factoring polynomial

this is where i can get to

$(m^4+n^4)(m^4-n^4)-2n^2m^2(m^4-n^4)$

$(m^2-n^2)(m^2+n^2)(m^4+n^4)-2n^2m^2(m^2-n^2)(m^2+n^2)$

$(m-n)(m+n)(m^2+n^2)(m^4+n^4)-2n^2m^2(m-n)(m+n)(m^2+n^2)$
 
Re: factoring polynomial

I would take this path:

$$\left(m^4+n^4 \right)\left(m^4-n^4 \right)-2m^2n^2\left(m^4-n^4 \right)$$

$$\left(m^4-n^4 \right)\left(m^4-2m^2n^2+n^4 \right)$$

Do you recognize that the second factor is a square of a binomial?
 
Re: factoring polynomial

yes this is answer

$(m-n)^{3}(m+n)^{3}(m^2+n^2)$
 
Re: factoring polynomial

paulmdrdo said:
yes this is answer

$(m-n)^{3}(m+n)^{3}(m^2+n^2)$

Yes, good job! (Sun)
 
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