Factoring trinomials

Front

What is factoring?

Back

Factoring is the process of breaking down an expression into simpler components, called factors, that when multiplied together give the original expression.

Front

What is a trinomial?

Back

A trinomial is a polynomial with three terms, usually in the form ax² + bx + c.

Front

What does it mean to factor a trinomial?

Back

To factor a trinomial means to express it as a product of two binomials.

Front

What is a binomial?

Back

A binomial is a polynomial with two terms, such as (x + 3) or (x - 5).

Front

What is the FOIL method?

Back

FOIL stands for First, Outside, Inside, Last. It is a method used to multiply two binomials.

Front

What is the result of (x - 3)(x - 3)?

Back

The result is (x - 3)².

Front

How do you check your factoring work?

Back

You can check your work by using the FOIL method to multiply the factors back together.

Front

What is the factored form of x² - 16?

Back

The factored form is (x - 4)(x + 4).

Front

What is a prime polynomial?

Back

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

Front

What is the factored form of x² + 6x + 8?

Back

The factored form is (x + 2)(x + 4).