To solve the polynomial equation \( x^3 - 16x = 0 \) by factoring, we can start by factoring out the common term \( x \):
\[ x(x^2 - 16) = 0 \]
Next, we notice that the expression \( x^2 - 16 \) is a difference of squares, which can be factored further:
\[ x(x - 4)(x + 4) = 0 \]
Now, we set each factor equal to zero to find the solutions:
- \( x = 0 \)
- \( x - 4 = 0 \) \(\Rightarrow x = 4\)
- \( x + 4 = 0 \) \(\Rightarrow x = -4\)
Thus, the solutions are:
\[ x = 0, 4, -4 \]
Checking Graphically
To check the solutions graphically, you would typically plot the function \( y = x^3 - 16x \) and look for the points where the graph intersects the x-axis. These intersections correspond to the solutions found above.
Using a graphing tool or software, you can visualize the function. The graph should show intersections at \( x = 0 \), \( x = 4 \), and \( x = -4 \).
The final answer is:
\[ \boxed{0, 4, -4} \]