Factorize: 2x + 4.

**The reasoning** Factorization means finding the **common factor** — what both terms share — and pulling it outside brackets. Look at 2x + 4: - 2x = 2 × x - 4 = 2 × 2 Both terms have **2** in common. Factor it out: 2x + 4 = 2(x) + 2(2) = **2(x + 2)** Check by expanding: 2(x + 2) = 2x + 4 ✓ **Why the wrong options tempt you** - **B) 2(x + 4)** — You might add the whole second term instead of dividing it by 2. Expanding gives 2x + 8, not 2x + 4. - **C) x(2 + 4)** — You can't factor out x when the second term (4) has no x in it. - **D) 2x(2)** — This equals 4x, completely different from our original expression. **Quick takeaway** Find what's common to *all* terms, pull it out, and what remains goes in brackets — always expand back to verify you haven't changed the expression.