Factoring Trinomial when a not 1

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 it mean to factor a polynomial?

Back

Factoring a polynomial means expressing it as a product of its factors, which are polynomials of lower degrees.

Front

What is the general form of a trinomial that needs factoring when the leading coefficient is not 1?

Back

The general form is ax^2 + bx + c, where a ≠ 1.

Front

What is the first step in factoring a trinomial when a ≠ 1?

Back

Identify two numbers that multiply to a*c (the product of the leading coefficient and the constant term) and add to b (the middle coefficient).

Front

Factor the trinomial: 2n^2 + n - 6

Back

(2n - 3)(n + 2)

Front

Factor the trinomial: 6k^2 - 19k - 7

Back

(3k + 1)(2k - 7)

Front

Factor the trinomial: 5a^2 - 11a + 6

Back

(5a - 6)(a - 1)

Front

Factor the trinomial: 5x^2 - 13x + 6

Back

(5x - 3)(x - 2)

Front

What is the significance of the leading coefficient in factoring?

Back

The leading coefficient affects the shape and direction of the parabola represented by the trinomial.

Front

What is a common mistake when factoring trinomials?

Back

A common mistake is to overlook the need to find two numbers that both multiply and add correctly.