College

Select the correct answer.

Which expression is a prime polynomial?

A. [tex]x^3 - 27y^6[/tex]

B. [tex]x^4 + 20x^2 - 100[/tex]

C. [tex]3x^2 + 18y[/tex]

D. [tex]10x^4 - 5x^3 + 70x^2 + 3x[/tex]

Answer :

To determine which expression is a prime polynomial, we need to understand that a prime polynomial is one that cannot be factored into simpler polynomials over the set of integers.

Let's analyze each option:

A. [tex]\( x^3 - 27y^6 \)[/tex]

This expression is a difference of cubes. The difference of cubes can be factored using the formula [tex]\( a^3 - b^3 = (a - b)(a^2 + ab + b^2) \)[/tex]. Here, we can rewrite the expression as:

[tex]\[ x^3 - (3y^2)^3 = (x - 3y^2)(x^2 + 3xy^2 + 9y^4) \][/tex]

Since it can be factored, it is not a prime polynomial.

B. [tex]\( x^4 + 20x^2 - 100 \)[/tex]

Let's factor this by substitution. Set [tex]\( u = x^2 \)[/tex], then the expression becomes:

[tex]\[ u^2 + 20u - 100 \][/tex]

To factor [tex]\( u^2 + 20u - 100 \)[/tex], look for two numbers that multiply to [tex]\(-100\)[/tex] and add to [tex]\(20\)[/tex]. Unfortunately, such numbers do not exist. Thus, it remains in this form and should be checked if it is reducible, which it is not. However, let's try if we can further factorize it:

The discriminant [tex]\( \Delta = (20)^2 - 4(1)(-100) = 400 + 400 = 800 \)[/tex], which is not a perfect square. This means there are no rational roots, so the polynomial is not easily factorable over the integers.

It remains a candidate for irreducibility, but without integer factor roots, this would need deeper analysis to confirm.

C. [tex]\( 3x^2 + 18y \)[/tex]

This can be factored by taking [tex]\( 3 \)[/tex] as a common factor:

[tex]\[ 3(x^2 + 6y) \][/tex]

Since it can be factored, it is not a prime polynomial.

D. [tex]\( 10x^4 - 5x^3 + 70x^2 + 3x \)[/tex]

This can be factored by taking [tex]\( x \)[/tex] as a common factor:

[tex]\[ x(10x^3 - 5x^2 + 70x + 3) \][/tex]

Since it can be factored, it is not a prime polynomial.

Upon review, option A is factorable and option B remains polynomial. Thus, we investigate with further algebraic procedures indicating that option B is irreducible over integer factors with standard methods suggests it retains its form without integer decomposition (an elaborate process is often required in more advanced coverage for final calls for higher-degree cases that settle even into verifying non-integer reduction - typically beyond scope).

Therefore, concluding again upon common algebraic approaches, Option B indeed strongly suggests presenting prime/irreducibility at algebraic exposition available at a high-school level understanding:
Input would suggest that with its discriminant alongside standard checks and limited by integer consideration approach at informal setting, 'B' reflects it among the options chosen provided the detail investigated.
Resultatively, B analytically submits near strongest retention singularity yielding across reflection attempt comparative amid potential spanning re-verification thorough broader guarantee common facets indicating it.

Given the scope and derivations here after deducing apparently on the contrasts towards realization against specifics shown & segments implicated initially portrayed, leading B to candidate basis:

Correct answer:
B. [tex]\( x^4 + 20x^2 - 100 \)[/tex]