To review this process here are the steps we followed.

1) Put the polynomial in descending order so that the term of highest degree ax2 is first followed by the term bx and c last.

2) Find the product ac of the a and c in ax2+bx +c. In other words multiply the coefficient of the first term by the constant or the last term. 

3) Find the factors of ac that have a sum equal to the

coefficient b of the middle term.

4) Rewrite the trinomial with four terms using the factors you found in step 3 to split the middle term.

5) Factor the four terms by grouping.

6) Check your work by multiplying the answer using F. O. I. L.

Print this page and keep it with you while you do the practice.

Practice

Work each problem out completely before you check the answer.

 Factor:

1.    3x2+5x+2

Answer

2.    2x2+13x+20

Answer

3.    5a2-13a+6

Answer

4.    3b2-17b-6

Answer

5.    2x2-5xy+3y2

Answer

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Created by: Dr. Marcia L. Tharp                                          

Revised on 3/26/01

Send comments to: tctharm@tc.cc.va.us