Factor the expression: \( -3 b-15 \) A \( -3(b-5) \) \( -3(-6-5) \)

To factor the expression \( -3b - 15 \), we first look for the greatest common factor (GCF) of the terms. The GCF of \(-3b\) and \(-15\) is \(-3\). So, we can extract \(-3\) from both terms: \[ -3(b + 5) \] Now, you’ll notice that while \( -3(b - 5) \) looks tempting, the correct factored form actually shows a positive 5 in the parentheses because \( -15 \) becomes \( +5 \) when you factor out \(-3\). To clarify why the other options are incorrect, understanding factoring is essential. Always look for negative signs or common multiples carefully! Next time you're dealing with an expression, remember to identify the GCF first; it simplifies your life and makes you look like a math whiz!