Flashcard Factor polynomials

Front

What is the process of factoring a polynomial?

Back

Factoring a polynomial involves expressing it as a product of its factors, which are polynomials of lower degrees.

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Define a trinomial.

Back

A trinomial is a polynomial with three terms, typically in the form ax^2 + bx + c.

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What is the difference of squares?

Back

The difference of squares is a special factoring case where a^2 - b^2 can be factored as (a + b)(a - b).

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(2x + 1)(x + 11)

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What is the first step in factoring by grouping?

Back

The first step is to group the terms in pairs and factor out the common factor from each pair.

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(x + 2)(2x - 3)

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What is a common factor?

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A common factor is a number or expression that divides two or more numbers or expressions without leaving a remainder.

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(x + 5)(x - 5) (Difference of squares)

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What does it mean to factor completely?

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To factor completely means to break down a polynomial into its simplest factors, which cannot be factored further.

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(m + 3)(2m - 3)