(x^2+x)(x^2+x-8)+12

2 min read Jun 17, 2024
(x^2+x)(x^2+x-8)+12

Factoring the Expression (x^2+x)(x^2+x-8)+12

This article will guide you through the process of factoring the expression (x^2+x)(x^2+x-8)+12.

1. Recognizing a Pattern

Notice that the expression has a repeating pattern: (x^2+x). Let's simplify things by using substitution.

  • Let y = x^2 + x.

Now our expression becomes: y(y-8) + 12

2. Expanding and Simplifying

Expand the expression:

  • y^2 - 8y + 12

3. Factoring the Quadratic

The expression is now a simple quadratic equation. We need to find two numbers that add up to -8 and multiply to 12. These numbers are -6 and -2.

  • (y - 6)(y - 2)

4. Substituting Back

Now substitute back y = x^2 + x:

  • (x^2 + x - 6)(x^2 + x - 2)

5. Factoring Further

The expressions in the parentheses are also quadratic expressions that can be factored:

  • (x+3)(x-2)(x+2)(x-1)

Final Factored Expression

Therefore, the completely factored form of the expression (x^2+x)(x^2+x-8)+12 is:

(x+3)(x-2)(x+2)(x-1)