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EXAMPLE 1Factoring Algebraic Expressions

Factor each expression completely:

(a) 2(x+3)(x2)3+(x+3)2(3)(x2)2

(b) 43x1/3(2x+1)+2x4/3

Solution(a) In expression (a), (x+3) and (x2)2 are common factors, factors found in each term. Factor them out. 2(x+3)(x2)3+(x+3)2(3)(x2)2=(x+3)(x2)2[2(x2)+3(x+3)]Factor out (x+3)(x2)2.=(x+3)(x2)2(5x+5)Simplify.=5(x+3)(x2)2(x+1)Factor out 5.

(b) We begin by writing the term 2x4/3 as a fraction with a denominator of 3. 43x1/3(2x+1)+2x4/3=4x1/3(2x+1)3+6x4/33=4x1/3(2x+1)+6x4/33Add the two fractions.=2x1/3[2(2x+1)+3x]32 and x1/3 are common factors.=2x1/3(7x+2)3Simplify.