A student is revising the idea of common factors in polynomials
MATHEMATICS · Subjective · AoPS · Mathematics · Follow the Rules · Follow the Rules
Problem
A student is revising the idea of common factors in polynomials.
(i) State the definition of the greatest common factor (GCF) of two or more polynomials.
(ii) Consider the polynomial −12x3+18x2.
(a) Factor it by taking a positive common factor.
(b) Factor it again by taking a negative common factor.
Write both answers in standard form.
(iii) Compare the two answers obtained in part (ii). Explain which inside factor is more convenient for further algebraic work and give one reason for your choice.
(iv) Using either factorisation, solve the equation −12x3+18x2=0.