Question

how do you factor the trinomial 2x^2+5x-3? step by step

Answer 1

Because the first and last numbers are prime, I would use a guess and check method. To achieve the first term, the factors must be 2x and x. So we have (2x )(x ) so far.

Answer 2

Because the last term is also prime we know that we will need ( 3)( 1)

Answer 3

Now we just need to choose signs and configuration that gives us what we want when we distribute back out.

Answer 4

Lets try (2x+3)(x-1). This gives 2x^2-2x+3x-3 which simplifies to 2x^2+x-3. This is not the original polynomial, so we need to try again.

Answer 5

What about if we try(2x-1)(x+3). Multiplying this out gives 2x^2+6x-x-3 which simplifies to our original polynomial. Success!

Answer 6

thank you so much c:
I vcame up with the trainomial but I wasn't sure how to factor it out

Answer 7

No worries. When you have a coefficient for the x^2 term, it makes factoring much less clear cut.

Answer 8

would it be a bother if i asked you for help on one more question involving polenomials c:?

Answer 9

No, that's cool.

Answer 10

it says : Explain, in complete sentences, whether or not the polynomial x2 – 16x + 64 fits one of the special patterns. If so, which one? Explain how the polynomial is factored.

Answer 11

This one is of the pattern x^2+2ax+a^2 where a=-8.

Answer 12

I would factor by first finding 2 quantities the multiply to give the first term' x and x. Then find 2 other quantities to multiply to give 64 that also add to give -16.

Answer 13

So we need (x-8)(x-8). Distribute to check.

Answer 14

okay okay, I'm pretty sure I got this..thanks a lot c:

Answer 15

No worries. :)