Factor Trinomials

Front

What is a trinomial?

Back

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

Front

How do you factor a trinomial of the form x^2 + bx + c?

Back

To factor, find two numbers that multiply to c and add to b, then express as (x + m)(x + n).

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Back

(x + 6)(x + 7) or (x + 7)(x + 6)

Front

What is the difference of squares?

Back

The difference of squares is a special case of factoring, expressed as a^2 - b^2 = (a - b)(a + b).

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Back

(x - 10)(x + 10) or (x + 10)(x - 10)

Front

What is the first step in factoring a trinomial?

Back

Identify the coefficients a, b, and c in the trinomial ax^2 + bx + c.

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Back

(x - 4)(x + 3) or (x + 3)(x - 4)

Front

What does it mean to factor a polynomial?

Back

Factoring a polynomial means expressing it as a product of its factors.

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Back

(x - 5)(x + 6) or (x + 6)(x - 5)

Front

What is the role of the leading coefficient in factoring?

Back

The leading coefficient (a) affects the shape of the parabola and can influence the factoring process.