Question

factor 48 + 42. write your answer in the form a(b + c) where a is the gcf of 48 and 42.

Explanation:

Step1: Find GCF of 48 and 42

Prime factors of 48: \(48 = 2\times2\times2\times2\times3\)
Prime factors of 42: \(42 = 2\times3\times7\)
Common factors: \(2, 3\), so GCF \(= 2\times3 = 6\).

Step2: Divide each term by GCF

\(48\div6 = 8\), \(42\div6 = 7\).

Step3: Write in factored form

\(48 + 42 = 6(8 + 7)\).

Answer:

\(6(8 + 7)\)