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 factor?

Back

A factor is a number or algebraic expression that divides another number or expression evenly, without leaving a remainder.

Front

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

Back

To factor a quadratic expression, look for two numbers that multiply to ac (the product of a and c) and add to b. Rewrite the expression using these numbers to factor by grouping.

Front

Factor the expression: 4n² - 17n - 15

Back

4n + 3

Front

Factor the expression: 2x² - 3x - 2

Back

(2x + 1)(x - 2)

Front

Factor the expression: 4b⁵ + 4b³ + 16b²

Back

4b²(b³ + b + 4)

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

Factor the expression: r² - 16r + 60

Back

r - 6

Front

What is the quadratic formula?

Back

The quadratic formula is x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / (2a), used to find the roots of a quadratic equation.

Front

What does it mean for an expression to be not factorable?

Back

An expression is not factorable if it cannot be expressed as a product of simpler expressions using real numbers.