Question

Dividing a polynomial by a monomial? Any tips and helpful hints are appreciated!!

Answer 1

A polynomial, by definition, has several terms, whereas a monomial just one.

In the ideal situation, each term of the polynomial and the monomial would have a factor in common; identifying and cancelling that factor would constitute a significant step towards reducing the polynomial divided by the monomial.

For example:

52x^2 + 16x + 26
--------------- = ?
18

2 is a factor common to each term in the numerator (i. e., the polynomial), as well as to the denominator. Division of every one of the four terms in this quotient by 2 will reduce it.