Factoring

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 factor?

Back

A factor is a number or expression that divides another number or expression evenly, without leaving a remainder.

Front

What is the difference of squares formula?

Back

The difference of squares formula states that a² - b² = (a + b)(a - b).

Front

Factor the expression: x² - 9

Back

(x + 3)(x - 3) - This is an example of the difference of squares.

Front

What is a trinomial?

Back

A trinomial is a polynomial with three terms, typically in the form ax² + bx + c.

Front

How do you factor a trinomial of the form x² + bx + c?

Back

To factor a trinomial of the form x² + bx + c, find two numbers that multiply to c and add to b.

Front

Factor the expression: x² + 5x + 6

Back

(x + 2)(x + 3) - The numbers 2 and 3 multiply to 6 and add to 5.

Front

What is the greatest common factor (GCF)?

Back

The GCF is the largest factor that two or more numbers or expressions share.

Front

How do you factor using the GCF?

Back

To factor using the GCF, identify the largest common factor of the terms and factor it out.

Front

Factor the expression: 6x² + 9x

Back

3x(2x + 3) - The GCF is 3x.