Which of the following is a factor of both x² + 6 and x² + 5x + 6?

To determine a common factor between the two algebraic expressions, we need to factor each expression separately.

First, let’s factor the expression x² + 6. This expression cannot be factored using real numbers, as it does not have any rational roots. Hence, it remains in its simplest form.

Now, let’s consider the second expression, x² + 5x + 6. We can factor this expression by finding two numbers that multiply to 6 (the constant term) and add up to 5 (the coefficient of the linear term). The numbers 2 and 3 fit this requirement.

Thus, we can factor x² + 5x + 6 as follows:

  • x² + 5x + 6 = (x + 2)(x + 3)

Now, observing the two expressions:

  • x² + 6 (unfactored)
  • (x + 2)(x + 3) for x² + 5x + 6

Since x² + 6 does not share any common factors with x² + 5x + 6, the answer is:

There is no common factor between the two expressions in terms of linear factors. The first expression is irreducible in real numbers.

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