Factoring Quadratics

Front

What is factoring in mathematics?

Back

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

Front

What is a quadratic expression?

Back

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

Front

What does GCF stand for in factoring?

Back

GCF stands for Greatest Common Factor, which is the largest factor that divides two or more numbers.

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: 5n² - 6n - 27

Back

(5n + 9)(n - 3)

Front

Factor the expression: x² - 10x - 24

Back

(x - 12)(x + 2)

Front

Factor the expression: x² + 11x + 24

Back

(x + 8)(x + 3)

Front

Factor the expression: 4x² - 20x + 25

Back

(2x - 5)²

Front

What is the first step in factoring a polynomial?

Back

The first step is to look for the GCF of all the terms in the polynomial.

Front

What is the difference of squares?

Back

The difference of squares is a special factoring case where a² - b² = (a + b)(a - b).