Can you explain how to find the greatest common factor

4x^2y^5 + 10x^3y^4

1 answer

To find the greatest common factor (GCF) of the expression 4x^2y^5 + 10x^3y^4, we need to find the largest expression that can be divided evenly into both terms.

First, look at the coefficients of the terms (4 and 10). The GCF of 4 and 10 is 2.

Next, look at the variables. In this case, the variables are x and y. Find the exponent for x that is common to both terms. The common factor for x is x^2. Also, find the exponent for y that is common to both terms. The common factor for y is y^4.

So, the GCF of 4x^2y^5 and 10x^3y^4 is 2x^2y^4.