Factoring With a Negative C
Understand factoring with a negative c in Grade 9 math — Explanation When your last term 'c' is negative, it’s a sign showdown! Part of Advanced Factoring and Functions for Grade 9.
Key Concepts
Property To factor $ax^2 + bx + c$ when $c$ is negative, the last terms in the binomial factors must have opposite signs (one positive, one negative). Explanation When your last term 'c' is negative, it’s a sign showdown! One factor must be positive and one must be negative. You have to test the combinations to see which arrangement gives you the correct middle term 'b'. Examples $4x^2 + 4x 3 = (2x+3)(2x 1)$ since the middle term is $(2x)( 1) + (3)(2x) = 4x$. $3x^2 14x 5 = (3x+1)(x 5)$ since the middle term is $(3x)( 5) + (1)(x) = 14x$.
Common Questions
What is 'Factoring With a Negative C' in Grade 9 math?
Explanation When your last term 'c' is negative, it’s a sign showdown! One factor must be positive and one must be negative.
How do you solve problems involving 'Factoring With a Negative C'?
One factor must be positive and one must be negative. You have to test the combinations to see which arrangement gives you the correct middle term 'b'.
Why is 'Factoring With a Negative C' an important Grade 9 math skill?
Common mistake tip: A common mistake is to move the coefficient (the number in front) along with the variable.. In $7x^{-5}$, the exponent only applies to the x, not the 7.