Question

a polynomial is factored using algebra tiles. which polynomial was factored? \\(\boldsymbol{\circ}\\) \\(x^2 - 2x - 8\\) \\(\boldsymbol{\circ}\\) \\(x^2 + 2x - 8\\) \\(\boldsymbol{\circ}\\) \\(x^2 - 2x - 4\\) \\(\boldsymbol{\circ}\\) \\(x^2 + 2x - 4\\)

Explanation:

Step1: Sum positive $x$ terms

$+x + x = +2x$

Step2: Sum negative $x$ terms

$-x -x -x -x = -4x$

Step3: Combine $x$ terms

$+2x -4x = -2x$

Step4: Count constant negative tiles

$-1 \times 8 = -8$

Step5: Assemble full polynomial

$x^2 + (-2x) + (-8) = x^2 -2x -8$

Answer:

$x^2 - 2x - 8$