Factorise f(x)=3x^3+8x^2-20x-16 completely

First we need to use the factor theorem to find a factor.f(1)=-25 so x-1 is not a factorf(-1)=9 so x+1 is not a factorf(2)=0 so x-2 is a factorSo x-2 is our starting point, we need to polynomial division f(x)/x-2.(x-2)(3x^2+14x+8)=3x^3+8x^2-20x-16 by polynomial divisionSo now need to try and factorise 3x^2+14x+83 is prime so in the brakets, (3x+a)(x+b) where a and b are to be foundFactors of 8 are 42 and 81 so either (3x+8)(x+1), (3x+1)(x+8), (3x+2)(x+4) or (3x+4)(x+2) (there are also negatives)From here you can see that (3x+2)(x+4) is correct.Therefore f(x) factorised completely is (3x+2)(x+4)(x-2).

LB
Answered by Luke B. Maths tutor

4780 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do I work out what integration method I should use to solve an integral?


A curve has parametric equations x = 2 sin θ, y = cos 2θ. Find y in terms of x


What is the gradient of the function y=x^3 at the point x=1?


How to sum an arithmetic progression?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning