In Exercises 49–64, factor any perfect square trinomials, or state that the polynomial is prime.64y² − 16y + 1
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Identify the given trinomial: \(64y^2 - 16y + 1\).
Check if the first and last terms are perfect squares: \(64y^2 = (8y)^2\) and \(1 = 1^2\).
Verify if the middle term is twice the product of the square roots of the first and last terms: \(-16y = 2 \times 8y \times 1\).
Since all conditions for a perfect square trinomial are met, express the trinomial as a square of a binomial: \((8y - 1)^2\).
Conclude that the trinomial \(64y^2 - 16y + 1\) is a perfect square trinomial and can be factored as \((8y - 1)^2\).
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Perfect Square Trinomials
A perfect square trinomial is a quadratic expression that can be expressed as the square of a binomial. It takes the form (a ± b)² = a² ± 2ab + b². Recognizing this pattern is essential for factoring, as it allows us to simplify the expression into a product of two identical binomials.
Solving Quadratic Equations by Completing the Square
Factoring Polynomials
Factoring polynomials involves rewriting a polynomial as a product of simpler polynomials. This process is crucial for solving equations and simplifying expressions. In the case of perfect square trinomials, identifying the correct binomial form is key to successful factoring.
A prime polynomial is one that cannot be factored into the product of two non-constant polynomials with real coefficients. Understanding when a polynomial is prime is important, as it indicates that no further simplification is possible. In the context of the given expression, determining if it is prime or a perfect square trinomial is essential for the solution.