Factoring Trinomials and Polynomials

The video tutorial explains how to factor trinomials in the form of AX^2 + BX + C when A is not equal to 1 and is not a common factor. It demonstrates the trial and error method to find binomial factors, using examples to illustrate the process. The tutorial also previews other methods like grouping and bottoms up for solving similar problems.

What is the first step in factoring a trinomial using the trial and error method?

• Use the quadratic formula.

• Identify the greatest common factor.

• List the factors of the first and last terms.

• Combine like terms.

Which of the following is a possible pair of factors for 4x^2?

• 6x and x

• 5x and x

• 2x and 2x

• 3x and x

What should you do if the sum of the inner and outer products has the correct number but the wrong sign?

• Change the trinomial.

• Add a constant term.

• Use a different method.

• Switch the signs of the factors.

In the second example, what are the possible factors for 20x^2?

• 2x and 3x

• 3x and 7x

• 6x and 5x

• 5x and 4x

Why are only positive factors considered for the constant term in the second example?

• The middle term is positive.

• Negative factors are not allowed.

• The leading coefficient is even.

• The trinomial is a perfect square.

What is the correct factorization of the trinomial 20x^2 + 19x + 3?

• (5x + 3)(4x + 1)

• (5x + 1)(4x + 3)

• (10x + 1)(2x + 3)

• (20x + 1)(x + 3)

What alternative methods are mentioned for factoring trinomials?

• Graphing and substitution

• Grouping and bottoms up

• Completing the square and synthetic division

• Long division and substitution