Factoring

Factoring is the process of breaking down an expression into a product of simpler expressions, called factors.

A polynomial is a mathematical expression that consists of variables, coefficients, and non-negative integer exponents, combined using addition, subtraction, and multiplication.

Factoring completely means breaking down a polynomial into its simplest factors, such that no further factoring is possible.

The difference of squares is a special factoring pattern that states: a² - b² = (a + b)(a - b).

To factor a quadratic expression, find two numbers that multiply to ac and add to b, then rewrite the expression using these numbers.

The GCF is the largest factor that divides two or more numbers or expressions without leaving a remainder.

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

A prime polynomial is a polynomial that cannot be factored into simpler polynomials with integer coefficients.

(3x - 2)(x - 2) is the complete factorization.

(3x - 2)(x + 4) is the complete factorization.