Question

How do you factor the expression `x^2 - 10xy + 24y^2`?

Answer 1

(x - 4y)(x - 6y)

Explanation:

Find 2 numbers, knowing product `(c = 24y^2)` and sum (b = -10y).
The numbers have same sign because ac > 0.
Factor pairs of `24y^2` --> (-3y, -8y)(-4y, -6y). This sum is -10y = b. Then the 2 numbers are: -4y and -6y.
Factored form: (x - 4y)(x - 6y)