How do you factor the expression #12x^2 - 5x - 3#?

1 Answer
George C.
Apr 27, 2016

#12x^2-5x-3=(3x+1)(4x-3)#

Explanation:

Use an AC method:

Look for a pair of factors of #AC = 12*3 = 36# with difference #B=5#.

The pair #9, 4# works.

Use this pair to split the middle term and factor by grouping:

#12x^2-5x-3#

#=12x^2-9x+4x-3#

#=(12x^2-9x)+(4x-3)#

#=3x(4x-3)+1(4x-3)#

#=(3x+1)(4x-3)#

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