To factor the quadratic expression \(12x^2 + 23x + 10\), we can use the method of factoring by grouping.
-
Multiply the coefficient of \(x^2\) (which is 12) by the constant term (which is 10): \[ 12 \times 10 = 120. \]
-
We need to find two numbers that multiply to 120 and add up to 23 (the coefficient of \(x\)). The two numbers that work are 15 and 8 because: \[ 15 \times 8 = 120 \quad \text{and} \quad 15 + 8 = 23. \]
-
Rewrite the middle term (23x) using 15 and 8: \[ 12x^2 + 15x + 8x + 10. \]
-
Now, group the terms: \[ (12x^2 + 15x) + (8x + 10). \]
-
Factor out the greatest common factor from each group: \[ 3x(4x + 5) + 2(4x + 5). \]
-
Now, we can factor out the common binomial factor \((4x + 5)\): \[ (4x + 5)(3x + 2). \]
Thus, the factored form of \(12x^2 + 23x + 10\) is: \[ (4x + 5)(3x + 2). \]