Math Problem Statement

Factor the following: 16x^2 + 8x + 1

Solution

The problem in your image is to factor the quadratic expression:

16x2+8x+116x^2 + 8x + 1

Step-by-step solution:

  1. Identify coefficients:

    • a=16a = 16 (coefficient of x2x^2),
    • b=8b = 8 (coefficient of xx),
    • c=1c = 1 (constant term).
  2. Check if it's a perfect square trinomial: A perfect square trinomial takes the form (Ax+B)2(Ax + B)^2, where: (Ax+B)2=A2x2+2ABx+B2(Ax + B)^2 = A^2x^2 + 2ABx + B^2 Let's check if this matches the given expression.

    • A2=16A=4A^2 = 16 \Rightarrow A = 4
    • B2=1B=1B^2 = 1 \Rightarrow B = 1
    • Now, check if 2AB=82AB = 8: 2(4)(1)=82(4)(1) = 8 This condition is satisfied.
  3. Conclusion: The given quadratic expression can be factored as a perfect square trinomial: 16x2+8x+1=(4x+1)216x^2 + 8x + 1 = (4x + 1)^2

Thus, the factorization is:

(4x+1)2(4x + 1)^2

Would you like further details or explanations on any step?

Here are some follow-up questions to explore the concept deeper:

  1. Can you explain why the middle term must be 2AB2AB for a perfect square trinomial?
  2. What is the general method to factor a trinomial that is not a perfect square?
  3. How would you factor a quadratic equation with negative terms, like 16x28x+116x^2 - 8x + 1?
  4. What role does the discriminant play in determining whether a quadratic expression can be factored easily?
  5. Can you expand (4x+1)2(4x + 1)^2 to verify the factorization?

Tip: Always check for common factors before factoring quadratics!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Factoring
Quadratic Expressions

Formulas

(Ax + B)^2 = A^2x^2 + 2ABx + B^2

Theorems

Perfect Square Trinomial Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10