Question: What is the factored form of the polynomial 2x^2 - 8?

Options:

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

Correct Answer: 2(x - 4)(x + 4)

Solution:

Step 1: Factor out the common term: 2(x^2 - 4). Step 2: Recognize the difference of squares: 2(x - 4)(x + 4).