Factoring Polynomials - Review

Front

What is factoring in mathematics?

Back

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

Front

What is a polynomial?

Back

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

Front

What is a trinomial?

Back

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

What is the difference of squares?

Back

The difference of squares is a factoring technique used for expressions in the form of a^2 - b^2, which can be factored as (a + b)(a - b).

Front

How do you factor a trinomial?

Back

To factor a trinomial, find two numbers that multiply to the product of the leading coefficient and the constant term, and add to the middle coefficient. Then, rewrite the trinomial and factor by grouping.

Front

What is the sum of cubes formula?

Back

The sum of cubes can be factored using the formula a^3 + b^3 = (a + b)(a^2 - ab + b^2).

Front

What is the difference of cubes formula?

Back

The difference of cubes can be factored using the formula a^3 - b^3 = (a - b)(a^2 + ab + b^2).

Front

What does it mean for a polynomial to be unfactorable?

Back

A polynomial is considered unfactorable if it cannot be expressed as a product of simpler polynomials with real coefficients.

Front

What is the first step in factoring polynomials?

Back

The first step in factoring polynomials is to look for a common factor among all the terms.