Algebra 2: Factoring Polynomials

Front

What is factoring in algebra?

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 the Greatest Common Factor (GCF)?

Back

The GCF is the largest factor that two or more numbers share. It is used to simplify expressions before factoring.

Front

Factor the expression: 3v² - 4v - 7

Back

(3v - 7)(v + 1)

Front

What is a polynomial?

Back

A polynomial is a mathematical expression that consists of variables, coefficients, and non-negative integer exponents.

Front

What does it mean to factor completely?

Back

Factoring completely means breaking down a polynomial into its simplest factors, ensuring no further factoring is possible.

Front

Factor the expression: 3x² + 18x + 15

Back

3(x + 5)(x + 1)

Front

What is a difference of squares?

Back

A difference of squares is a special factoring pattern that applies to expressions of the form a² - b², which factors to (a - b)(a + b).

Front

Factor the expression: 81m² - 1

Back

(9m - 1)(9m + 1)

Front

What is a perfect square trinomial?

Back

A perfect square trinomial is a polynomial that can be expressed as the square of a binomial, such as (a + b)² = a² + 2ab + b².

Front

Factor the expression: 4h² - 12h + 9

Back

(2h - 3)²