Factoring Trinomials a=1

Front

What is factoring in algebra?

Back

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

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 it mean to factor a trinomial when a=1?

Back

It means to express the trinomial in the form (x + p)(x + q) where p and q are numbers that add to b and multiply to c.

Front

Factor the trinomial: x^2 + 9x - 36

Back

(x + 12)(x - 3)

Front

Factor the trinomial: a^2 - a - 12

Back

(a - 4)(a + 3)

Front

Factor the trinomial: v^2 + 3v - 88

Back

(v + 11)(v - 8)

Front

Factor the trinomial: x^2 + 7x - 30

Back

(x + 10)(x - 3)

Front

What is the first step in factoring a polynomial?

Back

The first step is to look for the greatest common factor (GCF) of the terms.

Front

Factor completely: 3x^2 + 18x + 15

Back

3(x + 5)(x + 1)

Front

What is the GCF of the terms in 3x^2 + 18x + 15?

Back

The GCF is 3.