Factoring

Front

What is factoring in algebra?

Back

Factoring is the process of breaking down an expression into a product of simpler expressions, called factors.

Front

What is a polynomial?

Back

A polynomial is a mathematical expression that consists of variables, coefficients, and non-negative integer exponents, combined using addition, subtraction, and multiplication.

Front

What does it mean to factor completely?

Back

Factoring completely means breaking down a polynomial into its simplest factors, such that no further factoring is possible.

Front

What is the difference of squares?

Back

The difference of squares is a special factoring pattern that states: a² - b² = (a + b)(a - b).

Front

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

Back

To factor a quadratic expression, find two numbers that multiply to ac and add to b, then rewrite the expression using these numbers.

Front

What is the greatest common factor (GCF)?

Back

The GCF is the largest factor that divides two or more numbers or expressions without leaving a remainder.

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 prime polynomial?

Back

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

Front

Factor the expression: 3x² - 8x + 4

Back

(3x - 2)(x - 2) is the complete factorization.

Front

Factor the expression: 3x² + 10x - 8

Back

(3x - 2)(x + 4) is the complete factorization.