Question

find the greatest common factor of $15y^3$ and $12y^4$.

Explanation:

Step1: Factor coefficients

Factor 15 and 12: \(15 = 3\times5\), \(12 = 3\times4\). GCF of 15 and 12 is 3.

Step2: Factor variables

For \(y^3\) and \(y^4\), the GCF is \(y^3\) (lowest power of \(y\)).

Step3: Combine results

Multiply GCF of coefficients and variables: \(3\times y^3 = 3y^3\).

Answer:

\(3y^3\)