Factoring Trinomials

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 a trinomial?

Back

A trinomial is a polynomial with three terms, typically in the form ax^2 + 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 an expression.

Front

How do you factor a trinomial of the form x^2 + bx + c?

Back

To factor a trinomial of the form x^2 + bx + c, find two numbers that multiply to c and add to b, then express it as (x + m)(x + n) where m and n are those two numbers.

Front

Factor the trinomial: x^2 + 9x - 36

Back

(x + 12)(x - 3)

Front

Factor the trinomial: x^2 + 7x - 30

Back

(x + 10)(x - 3)

Front

Factor the trinomial: k^2 - 2k - 24

Back

(k + 4)(k - 6)

Front

What is the first step in factoring the expression 3x^2 + 18x + 15?

Back

The first step is to factor out the GCF, which is 3.

Front

Factor completely: 3x^2 + 18x + 15

Back

3(x + 5)(x + 1)

Front

How do you factor by pulling out the GCF?

Back

Identify the GCF of all terms in the expression and factor it out, rewriting the expression as the GCF multiplied by the remaining terms.