Home › STAAR EOC Algebra I › Mathematics › Factoring › After factoring a trinomial into two binomials, …
After factoring a trinomial into two binomials, what is the final step used to confirm the answer is correct?
AMultiply the two binomials back out and compare
BSubstitute zero for the variable and simplify
CAdd the two binomials together and compare
DDivide the trinomial by one of the binomials
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: A. Multiply the two binomials back out and compare
1. Every worked example in this method ends with a check by multiplying the two binomial factors back together.
2. If the product of the binomials matches the original trinomial, the factoring is confirmed correct.
3. Adding, dividing, or substituting zero are different operations that do not test whether the factored form expands back to the original expression.
_Source: OpenStax Elementary Algebra (CC BY 4.0), Ch 7 "Factoring", section 7.2 Factor Quadratic Trinomials with Leading Coefficient 1_
Related questions
Factor: x^3 + 64.According to the Sum and Difference of Cubes Pattern, how does a^3+b^3 factor?Factor completely: 36x^2y - 48xy + 16y.Factor completely: 8x^2y - 98y.Factor completely: 6x^2 + 96.What happens when you try to factor a sum of squares like a^2 + b^2?What is the completely factored form of x^4 - y^4?Factor: 100 - h^2.