Sort factors of variable expressions
Factoring is the reverse of the distributive property. It's like finding what was multiplied to get the expression.
Do this: Read the concept below, then try the quiz or activity.
Lesson 6 of 192
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Concept
To factor an expression, you find the greatest common factor (GCF) of the terms and "pull it out".
Example: Factor 6x + 9
1. Find the GCF of the terms: The GCF of 6x and 9 is 3.
2. "Pull out" the GCF:
* What do you multiply 3 by to get 6x? (2x)
* What do you multiply 3 by to get 9? (3)
3. Write the factored form: 3(2x + 3)Check: 3(2x + 3) = 6x + 9. It works!
Try it
Practice: Sort factors of variable expressions.