Identify common factors: Identify common factors in all terms of the polynomial x3−17x2+72x. All terms have an x in common, so we can factor out x. x(x2−17x+72)
Factor quadratic expression: Factor the quadratic expression x2−17x+72. We need to find two numbers that multiply to 72 and add up to −17. These numbers are −8 and −9. x(x−8)(x−9)
Check factored form: Check the factored form by expanding it to ensure it matches the original polynomial. x(x−8)(x−9)=x(x2−9x−8x+72)=x(x2−17x+72)=x3−17x2+72xThe expanded form matches the original polynomial, so the factoring is correct.
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