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In this topic, you will learn to perform operations on and then simplify a new type of algebraic terms called rational expressions. In many instances, this will require you to factor polynomials. Let’s review some fundamental factoring techniques:

  • The first step in factoring is to identify and factor out the Greatest Common Factor (GCF).

  • If the polynomial is a binomial, check to see if it is the difference of two perfect square terms, having the pattern a squared minus b2 equals a plus b times a minus c, the sum two cubes (Difference of perfect cubes patter, or the difference of two cubes Difference of two cubes.

  • If the polynomial is a trinomial, look for either a perfect square trinomial a squared plus 2 a b plus squared equals a plus b times a plus b or a squared minus two a b plus b squared equals a minus b times a minus b; or the general trinomial (a x squared plus b x plus c).
presentation icon Now refresh your factoring skills on these polynomials. Click here to access the review.

 


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