Factoring Polynomials

Front

What is factoring in polynomials?

Back

Factoring is the process of breaking down a polynomial into simpler components (factors) that, when multiplied together, give the original polynomial.

Front

What is a root of a polynomial?

Back

A root of a polynomial is a value of x that makes the polynomial equal to zero.

Front

How do you find the roots of a cubic polynomial?

Back

To find the roots of a cubic polynomial, you can use factoring, synthetic division, or the Rational Root Theorem.

Front

What is the Rational Root Theorem?

Back

The Rational Root Theorem states that any rational solution of a polynomial equation is a factor of the constant term divided by a factor of the leading coefficient.

Front

What is synthetic division?

Back

Synthetic division is a simplified form of polynomial long division that is used to divide a polynomial by a linear factor.

Front

What is the difference between a polynomial and a monomial?

Back

A polynomial is a sum of multiple terms, while a monomial consists of only one term.

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What is the standard form of a polynomial?

Back

The standard form of a polynomial is written in descending order of the degree of its terms.

Front

What is the degree of a polynomial?

Back

The degree of a polynomial is the highest power of the variable in the polynomial.

Front

How do you factor a polynomial of the form ax^2 + bx + c?

Back

To factor a polynomial of the form ax^2 + bx + c, look for two numbers that multiply to ac and add to b.

Front

What is a quadratic polynomial?

Back

A quadratic polynomial is a polynomial of degree 2, typically in the form ax^2 + bx + c.