How do you factor polynomials

Question

I am doing Algebra I homework and it is confusing me.

Answer 1

My answer here may help: http://www.wyzant.com/resources/answers/30155/factoring_polynomials

Answer 2

 I think you mean the 2nd degree polynomial, quadratic

 

     X^2 + bX + c

 

     You have to factor it to ( X + m ) ( X +n) in such a way that

 

      m + n = b

      mn = c 

 

   Example X^2 + 3X + 2 

 

              here your m+n = 3

                             mn = 2

 

                 m=2 m=1 is your answer

 

              The polynomial  X^2 + 3X + 2 = ( X +1 ) ( X+2) 

 

                If you multiply

 

                 ( X + 1 ) ( X+2 ) = ( X +1) X + 2 ( X +1)

 

                                          = X^2 + X + 2X  +2 = X^2 +3X +2   

 

 

 

        

Answer 3

Sydney - 

I can help you if you give me one or two of the problems that are confusing you!

 

Amanda