Mary Jane Sterling - Algebra I - 1001 Practice Problems For Dummies (+ Free Online Practice)

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Chapter 10

A binomial is an expression with two terms. The terms can be separated by addition or subtraction. You have four possibilities for factoring binomials: (1) factor out a greatest common factor, (2) factor as the difference of perfect squares, (3) factor as the difference of perfect cubes, and (4) factor as the sum of perfect cubes. If one of these methods doesn’t work, the binomial doesn’t factor when using real numbers.

The problems in this chapter focus on the following:

Factoring when the two terms are the difference of perfect squares (both the numbers and the variables must be perfect squares)

Factoring when the two terms are the difference of perfect cubes (both the numbers and the variables must be perfect cubes)

Factoring when the two terms are the sum of perfect cubes (both the numbers and the variables must be perfect cubes)

Using more than one factorization technique in a problem

When working through the steps necessary for factoring binomials, pay careful attention to the following:

Recognizing when a number is a perfect square so you can apply the factorization technique

Knowing enough of the perfect cubes to recognize them in binomials

Using the correct sign between the first and second terms of the trinomial when factoring sums and differences of cubes

Trying to factor the sum of perfect squares and mistaking it for the technique used with cubes

Using the correct exponents when factoring higher-power squares and cubes and dividing the exponents, not taking their root

456–465 Factor each binomial using the pattern for the difference of squares.

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466–475 Factor each as the sum or difference of perfect cubes.

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476–495 Completely factor each binomial.

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