Factoring and FOIL

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 does GCF stand for?

Back

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

Front

How do you find the GCF of 5x^2 and 20x?

Back

The GCF is 5x.

Front

What is the FOIL method used for?

Back

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

Front

Use the FOIL method to multiply (x + 2)(x + 3). What is the result?

Back

The result is x^2 + 5x + 6.

Front

What is the factored form of 8r^3 + 16r^2?

Back

The factored form is 8r^2(r + 2).

Front

Factor the expression 4r^2 - 49. What is the result?

Back

The result is (2r + 7)(2r - 7).

Front

What is a binomial?

Back

A binomial is a polynomial that contains exactly two terms.

Front

What is a trinomial?

Back

A trinomial is a polynomial that contains exactly three terms.

Front

What is the difference of squares?

Back

The difference of squares is a special factoring pattern that states a^2 - b^2 = (a + b)(a - b).