VML banner
wt linkvml linkcollege algebra linkintermediate algebrabeginning algebra linkgre linkthea link

College Algebra
Answer/Discussion to Practice Problems  
Tutorial 18: Solving Polynomial Equations by Factoring

WTAMU > Virtual Math Lab > College Algebra > Tutorial 18: Solving Polynomial Equations by Factoring


 

Answer/Discussion to 1a


 
Step 1: Simplify each side if needed.

 
This polynomial equation is already simplified.

 
Step 2: Write in standard form, , if needed.

 
This polynomial equation is already in standard form.

 
Step 3: Factor.

 
*Poly. eq. in standard form
*Factor out the GCF
*Factor a  diff. of squares

 
Step 4:  Use the Zero-Product Principle

AND

Step 5: Solve for the equation(s) set up in step 4. 

 
*Use Zero-Product Principle
*Set 1st factor = 0 and solve
 
 
 

*Set 2nd factor = 0 and solve
 
 
 
 
 

*Set 3rd factor = 0 and solve
 

 

 
There are two solutions to this polynomial equation: x = 0, x = -5 and x = 5.

 
(return to problem 1a)


 

Answer/Discussion to 1b


 
Step 1: Simplify each side if needed.

 
This polynomial equation is already simplified.

 
Step 2: Write in standard form, , if needed.

 

*Inverse of add. 16y and sub. 48 is
sub. 16y and add. 48
*Poly. eq. in standard form

 
Step 3: Factor.

 
*Poly. eq. in standard form
*Factor by grouping

*Factor a  diff. of squares
 

 
Step 4:  Use the Zero-Product Principle

AND

Step 5: Solve for the equation(s) set up in step 4. 

 
*Use Zero-Product Principle
*Set 1st factor = 0 and solve
 
 
 
 

*Set 2nd factor = 0 and solve
 
 
 
 
 
 

*Set 3rd factor = 0 and solve
 

 

 
There are two solutions to this polynomial equation: y = 3, y = -4 and y = 4.

 
(return to problem 1b)

 

 

WTAMU > Virtual Math Lab > College Algebra > Tutorial 18: Solving Polynomial Equations by Factoring


All contents copyright (C) 2002 - 2008, WTAMU and Kim Seward. All rights reserved.
Last revised on June 13, 2008 by Kim Seward.