Factoring Trinomials

Front

What is factoring in algebra?

Back

Factoring is the process of breaking down an expression into simpler components, or factors, that when multiplied together give the original expression.

Front

What is a trinomial?

Back

A trinomial is a polynomial with three terms, typically in the form ax² + bx + c.

Front

What does GCF stand for?

Back

GCF stands for Greatest Common Factor, which is the largest factor that divides two or more numbers.

Front

How do you factor a trinomial of the form x² + bx + c?

Back

To factor a trinomial of the form x² + bx + c, find two numbers that multiply to c and add to b, then express it as (x + m)(x + n).

Front

What is the first step in factoring a trinomial?

Back

The first step is to check for a Greatest Common Factor (GCF) among the terms.

Front

Factor the trinomial: x² - 16x + 48

Back

(x - 12)(x - 4)

Front

Factor the trinomial: 6x² - 16x + 8

Back

2(3x - 2)(x - 2)

Front

Factor the trinomial: 3x² - 8x + 4

Back

(3x - 2)(x - 2)

Front

What is the process to factor by grouping?

Back

To factor by grouping, group terms with common factors, factor out the GCF from each group, and then factor out the common binomial.

Front

What is the difference of squares?

Back

The difference of squares is a special factoring case where a² - b² = (a - b)(a + b).