NOTE: On this page, we will be taking a quick peek at division by a binomial.
These problems will be simple problems that can be solved by factoring the numerator
.

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bullet A binomial is a polynomial with exactly two terms.
(Terms will be separated by an add or subtract signs.).

The division of a polynomial by a binomial is directly related to factoring. The binomial denominator can only be reduced with another matching binomial in the numerator, implying that the numerator must be factored before the division begins.

statement
When dividing a polynomial by a binomial, FACTOR completely both the numerator and denominator (the dividend and divisor) before reducing. Reduce the greatest common factors from the numerator and denominator.

reminder
The terms in a binomial cannot be separated from one another when reducing. For example, in the binomial (4x - 1), the 4x cannot be reduced by itself. You must reduce the entire expression (4x - 1).

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expin3
ex3

dmex3




Create a fraction for the division.
Factor the numerator.
Reduce the common factor of (x + 3).

expin4
ex4

dmex4


 

Create a fraction for the division.
Factor the numerator.
Reduce the common factor of (a - 5).


expin5
ex5

dmex5

 

Create a fraction for the division.
Factor the numerator.
Reduce the common factor
(y + 2).


expin6
ex6

dmex6


Create a fraction for the division.
Factor the numerator.
Factor the denominator.
Reduce the common factor of (x + 2).


beware
Sneaky one, coming up!!

expin7
polyF1

polyF2
(7 - x) and (x - 7) are "almost" the same, except that the signs of the terms are opposite one another. To create a situation that will allow for reducing, factor out -1 from one of these binomials, and then reduce.

 

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