Factoring Polynomials

Front

What is factoring in mathematics?

Back

Factoring is the process of breaking down an expression into a product of simpler factors that, when multiplied together, give the original expression.

Front

What is a polynomial?

Back

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

Front

What is the degree of a polynomial?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference of squares?

Back

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

Front

What is the sum of cubes?

Back

The sum of cubes is a factoring pattern that states: a³ + b³ = (a + b)(a² - ab + b²).

Front

What is the difference of cubes?

Back

The difference of cubes is a factoring pattern that states: a³ - b³ = (a - b)(a² + ab + b²).

Front

How do you factor a trinomial of the form ax² + bx + c?

Back

To factor a trinomial of the form ax² + bx + c, find two numbers that multiply to ac and add to b, then rewrite the middle term and factor by grouping.

Front

What is the greatest common factor (GCF)?

Back

The greatest common factor (GCF) is the largest factor that divides two or more numbers or expressions.

Front

How do you factor by grouping?

Back

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

Front

What is a quadratic polynomial?

Back

A quadratic polynomial is a polynomial of degree 2, typically in the form ax² + bx + c.