Factoring Intro - X Game

Front

What is factoring in mathematics?

Back

Factoring is the process of breaking down an expression into a product of simpler factors. For example, factoring the expression x^2 - 9 results in (x - 3)(x + 3).

Front

What is a factor?

Back

A factor is a number or algebraic expression that divides another number or expression evenly, without leaving a remainder. For example, 3 is a factor of 12.

Front

What does it mean to solve for x in an equation?

Back

Solving for x means finding the value of x that makes the equation true. For example, in the equation x + 2 = 5, solving for x gives x = 3.

Front

What is the zero-product property?

Back

The zero-product property states that if the product of two factors is zero, then at least one of the factors must be zero. For example, if (x - 2)(x + 3) = 0, then x - 2 = 0 or x + 3 = 0.

Front

How do you factor a quadratic expression?

Back

To factor a quadratic expression of the form ax^2 + bx + c, find two numbers that multiply to ac and add to b. Then, rewrite the expression using these numbers.

Front

What is the difference of squares?

Back

The difference of squares is a special factoring pattern that states a^2 - b^2 = (a - b)(a + b). For example, x^2 - 16 can be factored as (x - 4)(x + 4).

Front

What is a trinomial?

Back

A trinomial is a polynomial with three terms. For example, x^2 + 5x + 6 is a trinomial.

Front

How do you factor a trinomial?

Back

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

Front

What is a common factor?

Back

A common factor is a number or expression that divides two or more numbers or expressions evenly. For example, the common factors of 12 and 18 are 1, 2, 3, and 6.

Front

What is the greatest common factor (GCF)?

Back

The greatest common factor (GCF) is the largest factor that two or more numbers share. For example, the GCF of 8 and 12 is 4.