How do you factor this?

Question

how do you factor this:

3x² - 16x + 16

i have been trying for a while but could not get it --- i need some help with this math problem

Answer 1

use quadratic formula  [-b sqrt (b^2-4ac)]/2a

a=3  b= - 16   c= 16

you get x=4 and x= 1 and (1/3) or 1.333333

Answer 2

Multiply the leading coefficient (3) by the constant term (16) to get 48.  You need factors of 48 that add up to the linear coefficient (-16).  -4 and -12 fit the bill nicely.  So,

3x^2 - 12x - 4x + 16 = 3x(x - 4) - 4(x - 4) = (3x - 4)(x - 4)