Algebra: Factoring Polynomials

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Questions and Answers

Which factoring method is most suitable for a polynomial expression in the form of $a^2 - b^2$?

  • Sum and Difference of Cubes
  • Difference of Squares (correct)
  • Factoring Quadratic Expressions
  • Greatest Common Factor (GCF)

What is the first step recommended when factoring any polynomial?

  • Applying the FOIL method.
  • Checking for special products.
  • Verifying the factored form immediately.
  • Looking for the Greatest Common Factor (GCF). (correct)

What should you do to ensure that your factored polynomial is correct?

  • Ask a teacher.
  • Compare it with online examples.
  • Multiply the factors to see if they equal the original polynomial. (correct)
  • Ensure each term has a common factor.

Which factoring technique is most directly applicable to the expression $x^3 + 27$?

<p>Sum and Difference of Cubes (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When is the FOIL method most directly useful in the context of factoring polynomials?

<p>Factoring quadratic expressions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of expression is $4x^2 - 9$?

<p>A difference of squares (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a practical tip for becoming proficient in factoring polynomials?

<p>Consistent practice. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does recognizing 'special products' aid in factoring polynomials?

<p>It helps identify patterns that allow for quicker factorization. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the factored form of $15x^2 + 25x$ using the Greatest Common Factor (GCF) method effectively?

<p>$5x(3x + 5)$ (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of 'checking your work' after factoring a polynomial?

<p>To verify the factored form is equivalent to the original polynomial. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Greatest Common Factor (GCF)

Factor out the largest common factor from each term.

Sum and Difference of Cubes

Factor expressions in the form of a³ + b³ or a³ - b³.

Difference of Squares

Factor expressions in the form of a² - b².

Factoring Quadratic Expressions

Factor expressions in the form of ax² + bx + c.

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Look for GCF

Check if there's a common factor among all terms.

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Check for Special Products

Identify if the polynomial fits special product patterns.

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Use the FOIL Method

Multiply the two binomials.

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Check Your Work

Verify your factored form by multiplying it out.

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Study Notes

Types of Factoring

  • Greatest Common Factor (GCF) involves factoring out the largest common factor from each term: 6x + 12 = 6(x + 2)
  • Difference of Squares factors expressions in the form of a^2 - b^2: x^2 - 4 = (x - 2)(x + 2)
  • Sum and Difference of Cubes factors expressions in the form of a^3 + b^3 or a^3 - b^3: x^3 + 8 = (x + 2)(x^2 - 2x + 4)
  • Factoring Quadratic Expressions factors expressions in the form of ax^2 + bx + c: x^2 + 5x + 6 = (x + 2)(x + 3)

Steps to Factor Polynomials

  • Look for GCF to see if there is a common factor among all terms
  • Check for Special Products to see if the polynomial fits any special product patterns, such as difference of squares
  • Use the FOIL Method for quadratic expressions to multiply the two binomials
  • Check Your Work by multiplying it out to ensure it equals the original polynomial

Examples

  • Factor: 12x^2 + 18x, Answer: 6x(2x + 3)
  • Factor: x^2 - 9, Answer: (x - 3)(x + 3)
  • Factor: x^3 - 8, Answer: (x - 2)(x^2 + 2x + 4)

Tips

  • Practice factoring polynomials, as it takes time and practice to become proficient
  • Check your work to verify your factored form is correct
  • Utilize online tools and resources to help factor polynomials

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