Factoring Review

Front

What is factoring in algebra?

Back

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

Front

What is a trinomial?

Back

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

Front

What does DOTS stand for in factoring?

Back

DOTS stands for 'Difference of Two Squares', a factoring technique used for expressions in the form a^2 - b^2.

Front

Factor the trinomial: x^2 - 15x + 36

Back

(x - 12)(x - 3)

Front

Factor the expression: 81m^2 - 1

Back

(9m - 1)(9m + 1)

Front

What is the first step in factoring a polynomial?

Back

The first step is to look for a common factor in all terms of the polynomial.

Front

Factor the expression: 10x^2 + 15x - 5

Back

5(2x^2 + 3x - 1)

Front

What is the formula for factoring a difference of squares?

Back

The formula is a^2 - b^2 = (a - b)(a + b).

Front

Factor the expression: x^2 - 9

Back

(x + 3)(x - 3)

Front

What does it mean to factor completely?

Back

To factor completely means to break down an expression into its simplest factors, with no further factoring possible.