Factoring Trinomials

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 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 all terms in a polynomial.

Front

How do you factor a trinomial of the form ax² + bx + c?

Back

To factor a trinomial, find two numbers that multiply to ac (the product of a and c) and add to b. Then, rewrite the middle term using these numbers and factor by grouping.

Front

What is the FOIL method?

Back

FOIL is a method used to multiply two binomials. It stands for First, Outside, Inside, Last, referring to the order in which you multiply the terms.

Front

Factor the trinomial: 2m² + 3m - 9

Back

(m + 3)(2m - 3)

Front

Factor completely: 3x² + 18x + 15

Back

3(x + 5)(x + 1)

Front

What is the first step in factoring a polynomial?

Back

The first step is to look for the Greatest Common Factor (GCF) among the terms.

Front

Factor the trinomial: a² - a - 12

Back

(a - 4)(a + 3)

Front

Factor the trinomial: n² + 5n - 6

Back

(n - 1)(n + 6)