A student is attempting to factor a polynomial. Sample mathematical work is shown below. Which statement best applies to the sam
ple mathematical work? Given 3x + 6, the factors of the first term are 3 and x, and the factors of the second term are 1, 2, 3, and 6. Thus, the greatest common factor is 3. Dividing through by the greatest common factor, I get x + 3. Thus, the factored polynomial is 3(x + 3).
I believe it is B. The student incorrectly divided each term by the greatest common factor.
Step-by-step explanation:
3 is the correct greatest common factor of 3x+6, but it wouldn't be 3(x+3). If the student correctly divided each term, it would be 3(x+2). I hope this helps!
