What is the Factorization of p^3 - q^3 -p(p^2 - q^2) + q(p - q)^2?

  • MHB
  • Thread starter mathdad
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Polynomial
In summary, to determine if a polynomial is completely factored, there should be no more common factors that can be factored out, all terms should be in their simplest form, and there should be no more terms that can be combined. The steps to factor a polynomial include finding the greatest common factor, using the distributive property, and checking for further factoring methods. Not all polynomials can be factored, as some may have prime factors or complex roots. Factoring and solving a polynomial are different processes, with factoring involving breaking down the polynomial into simpler factors and solving involving finding the values that make the equation true. While there are some shortcuts and patterns that can make factoring easier, it is also important to practice and be
  • #1
mathdad
1,283
1
Factor.

p^3 - q^3 -p(p^2 - q^2) + q(p - q)^2

Solution:

p^3 - q^3 - p^3 + pq^2 + q(p^2 -2pq + q^2)

p^3 - q^3 - p^3 + pq^2 + qp^2 -2pq^2 + q^3

pq^2 + qp^2 - 2pq^2

-pq^2 + qp^2

qp^2 - pq^2

pq(p - q)

Correct?
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Let's see:

\(\displaystyle p^3-q^3-p(p^2-q^2)+q(p-q)^2=(p-q)\left(\left(p^2+pq+q^2\right)-p(p+q)+q(p-q)\right)=(p-q)(p^2+pq+q^2-p^2-pq+pq-q^2)=pq(p-q)\quad\checkmark\)
 
  • #3
It feels good to find the right answer.
 

FAQ: What is the Factorization of p^3 - q^3 -p(p^2 - q^2) + q(p - q)^2?

1. How do I know when a polynomial is completely factored?

When a polynomial is completely factored, there will be no more common factors that can be factored out and all remaining factors will be prime numbers. Additionally, all terms should be in their simplest form and there should be no more terms that can be combined.

2. What are the steps to factor a polynomial?

The steps to factor a polynomial include:
1. Determine the greatest common factor (GCF) of all terms
2. Use the distributive property to factor out the GCF from all terms
3. Check if the remaining terms can be factored further by using methods such as grouping, difference of squares, or trinomial factoring
4. Repeat the process until the polynomial is completely factored.

3. Can all polynomials be factored?

No, not all polynomials can be factored. Some polynomials may have prime factors or complex roots that cannot be factored further.

4. What is the difference between factoring and solving a polynomial?

Factoring a polynomial is the process of breaking it down into its smaller, simpler factors while solving a polynomial involves finding the values of the variable that make the polynomial equation true. Factoring is a part of solving a polynomial, but solving also includes steps such as setting the equation equal to zero and using methods like the quadratic formula or completing the square.

5. Are there any shortcuts or tricks for factoring a polynomial?

Yes, there are some common patterns and shortcuts that can help with factoring certain types of polynomials. For example, the difference of squares pattern (a^2 - b^2 = (a+b)(a-b)) can be used to factor polynomials with two terms that are perfect squares. Additionally, practicing and familiarizing yourself with different factoring methods can also make the process quicker and easier.

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
926
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
13
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
826
Back
Top