Question: What is the factored form of the polynomial 3x^2 - 12?

Options:

1. 3(x - 4)(x + 4)
2. 3(x - 2)(x + 2)
3. 3(x - 4)
4. 3(x + 4)

Correct Answer: 3(x - 4)(x + 4)

Solution:

First, factor out 3: 3(x^2 - 4). Then, factor the difference of squares: 3(x - 2)(x + 2).