REVIEW #1 ON FACTORING TECHNIQUES

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 difference of squares formula?

Back

The difference of squares formula states that a² - b² = (a + b)(a - b).

Front

What is the sum of cubes formula?

Back

The sum of cubes formula states that a³ + b³ = (a + b)(a² - ab + b²).

Front

What is the product of sums and differences?

Back

The product of sums and differences states that (a + b)(a - b) = a² - b².

Front

How do you factor a trinomial of the form ax² + bx + c?

Back

To factor a trinomial, find two numbers that multiply to ac and add to b, then rewrite the middle term and factor by grouping.

Front

What is a prime polynomial?

Back

A prime polynomial is a polynomial that cannot be factored into simpler polynomials with real coefficients.

Front

What is the greatest common factor (GCF)?

Back

The GCF is the largest factor that divides two or more numbers or expressions.

Front

How do you factor by grouping?

Back

To factor by grouping, group terms with common factors, factor out the GCF from each group, and then factor out the common binomial.

Front

What is a perfect square trinomial?

Back

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

Front

What is the formula for factoring a perfect square trinomial?

Back

The formula for factoring a perfect square trinomial is a² + 2ab + b² = (a + b)² or a² - 2ab + b² = (a - b)².