Algebra 2 Factoring

Front

What is factoring in algebra?

Back

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

Front

What is the factored form of a quadratic equation?

Back

The factored form of a quadratic equation is expressed as (ax + b)(cx + d), where a, b, c, and d are constants.

Front

How do you factor a difference of squares?

Back

A difference of squares can be factored using the formula a^2 - b^2 = (a + b)(a - b).

Front

What is the formula for factoring a perfect square trinomial?

Back

A perfect square trinomial can be factored using the formula a^2 + 2ab + b^2 = (a + b)^2 or a^2 - 2ab + b^2 = (a - b)^2.

Front

Factor the expression x^2 - 9.

Back

(x + 3)(x - 3) - This is a difference of squares.

Front

What is the first step in factoring a polynomial?

Back

The first step is to look for a greatest common factor (GCF) among the terms.

Front

How do you factor the expression x^3 + 27?

Back

x^3 + 27 can be factored as (x + 3)(x^2 - 3x + 9) using the sum of cubes formula.

Front

What is the sum of cubes formula?

Back

The sum of cubes can be factored using the formula a^3 + b^3 = (a + b)(a^2 - ab + b^2).

Front

Factor the expression 2x^2 + 8x.

Back

2x(x + 4) - Factor out the GCF, which is 2x.

Front

What is the factored form of 3x^2 - 12?

Back

3(x^2 - 4) = 3(x + 2)(x - 2) - Factor out the GCF and then factor the difference of squares.