Worked examples
Two examples
Example 1
Simplify: 6x32x
- Divide the numbers: 6 ÷ 2 = 3.
- Subtract exponents: 3 − 1 = 2.
Answer: 3x2
Example 2
Simplify: x2 − 9x + 3
- Factor the top: (x + 3)(x − 3).
- The factor (x + 3) is on the top and the bottom, so it cancels.
Answer: x − 3
Where this is taught: Quiz 39: Polynomials and Factoring, “Factoring: running the multiplication backward”
The drill
Ten problems
How many:
Type the simplified answer, with no fraction left, like x - 3 or 2x^2. Then press Check my answers at the bottom.Write each answer on the line. The answer key, with the reasoning, is on the last page.