factoring polynomials

[tater]

ax+ay+6x+6y= this says to factor polynomial completely and we can not find any answers for this problem.Please help!!!

 

[mmm4444bot]

a*x + a*y + 6*x + 6*y

Notice the patterns: a a 6 6 and x y x y.

I mean, first a multiplies both x and y, and then 6 multiplies them both, too.

That's a familiar process. I'm sure you've seen it before.

Think "Distributive Property" in reverse.

Or, think FOIL in reverse.

When a multiplies both x and y, the Distributive Property says:

a(x + y) = a*x + a*y

This works both ways; if you're given the expression a*x + a*y, and you want to factor it, then you're applying the Distributive Property in reverse:

a*x + a*y = a(x + y)

Now, we see that x and y are being multiplied by 6, too.

If (x + y) is one factor, what do you suppose the other factor is ?

Use FOIL, to verify your factorization.

If you still need help, please share what else you've been able to come up with, or ask specific questions about the parts you don't understand.

Cheers ~ Mark

 

[tater]

thanks so much for the help.I love this site!!!