Using Synthetic Division with Polynomials (4.2.1)

Question 1

• Synthetic division is a shorthand method for dividing polynomials when the divisor is in the form (x + c).

Answer 1

• Synthetic division is a shorthand method for dividing polynomials when the divisor is in the form (x + c).

Question 2

• Synthetic division only works when the coefficient for x in the dividing polynomial is +1. If there is any other coefficient on the term of highest degree, divide the dividing polynomial by that coefficient to eliminate it.

Answer 2

• Synthetic division only works when the coefficient for x in the dividing polynomial is +1. If there is any other coefficient on the term of highest degree, divide the dividing polynomial by that coefficient to eliminate it.

Question 3

• To set up the problem, change the sign of the constant in the divisor and set it up to divide with all the coefficients of the problem.

Answer 3

• To set up the problem, change the sign of the constant in the divisor and set it up to divide with all the coefficients of the problem.

Question 4

• Be sure that the coefficients match terms in descending degree and that you include coefficients of 0 for any exponents that are missing.

Answer 4

• Be sure that the coefficients match terms in descending degree and that you include coefficients of 0 for any exponents that are missing.