What does it mean to factor an algebraic expression?

Answer 1

To factor an algebraic expression means to write it as a product of its factors, which are usually polynomials. This process involves determining the factors that when multiplied together give the original expression. Factoring an expression can help to simplify it, identify common factors, solve equations, and understand the behavior of the function.

Answer 2

Then tell how to factor 35x - 40

Answer 3

To factor the expression 35x - 40, we can first look for a common factor in both terms. In this case, we can divide both terms by 5, giving us:

5(7x - 8)

Now we have factored out the common factor of 5. The expression 7x - 8 cannot be factored further since it is in its simplest form. Therefore, the fully factored expression is:

5(7x - 8)