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Elementary Algebra

Key Terms

Elementary AlgebraKey Terms
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Key Terms

difference of squares pattern
If a and b are real numbers,
 This image shows the difference of two squares formula, a squared – b squared = (a – b)(a + b). Also, the squares are labeled, a squared and b squared. The difference is shown between the two terms. Finally, the factoring (a – b)(a + b) are labeled as conjugates.
factoring
Factoring is splitting a product into factors; in other words, it is the reverse process of multiplying.
greatest common factor
The greatest common factor is the largest expression that is a factor of two or more expressions is the greatest common factor (GCF).
perfect square trinomials pattern
If a and b are real numbers,
a2+2ab+b2=(a+b)2a2−2ab+b2=(a−b)2a2+2ab+b2=(a+b)2a2−2ab+b2=(a−b)2
prime polynomials
Polynomials that cannot be factored are prime polynomials.
quadratic equations
are equations in which the variable is squared.
sum and difference of cubes pattern

a3+b3=(a+b)(a2−ab+b2)a3−b3=(a−b)(a2+ab+b2)a3+b3=(a+b)(a2−ab+b2)a3−b3=(a−b)(a2+ab+b2)
Zero Product Property
The Zero Product Property states that, if the product of two quantities is zero, at least one of the quantities is zero.
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