Factoring Trinomials a=1

Front

What is a trinomial?

Back

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

Front

What does it mean to factor a trinomial?

Back

Factoring a trinomial involves rewriting it as a product of two binomials.

Front

What is the standard form of a quadratic equation?

Back

The standard form is ax² + bx + c = 0, where a, b, and c are constants.

Front

What is the significance of the leading coefficient in a trinomial?

Back

The leading coefficient (a) determines the direction of the parabola when graphed.

Front

How do you determine if a trinomial is factorable?

Back

A trinomial is factorable if it can be expressed as a product of two binomials with rational coefficients.

Front

What is the method to factor a trinomial when a = 1?

Back

When a = 1, look for two numbers that multiply to c and add to b.

Front

Factor the trinomial: x² - 4x + 4

Back

(x - 2)(x - 2) or (x - 2)².

Front

Factor the trinomial: x² + 6x + 9

Back

(x + 3)(x + 3) or (x + 3)².

Front

What is a prime polynomial?

Back

A prime polynomial cannot be factored into simpler polynomials with rational coefficients.

Front

Factor the trinomial: x² + 5x + 6

Back

(x + 2)(x + 3).