In Exercises 1–30, factor each trinomial, or state that the trinomial is prime. Check each factorization using FOIL multiplication.a² + 5a − 14
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Step 1: Identify the trinomial in the form of ax^2 + bx + c. Here, a = 1, b = 5, and c = -14.
Step 2: Look for two numbers that multiply to ac (1 * -14 = -14) and add to b (5).
Step 3: The numbers that satisfy these conditions are 7 and -2, because 7 * -2 = -14 and 7 + (-2) = 5.
Step 4: Rewrite the middle term (5a) using the numbers found: a^2 + 7a - 2a - 14.
Step 5: Factor by grouping: (a^2 + 7a) + (-2a - 14) = a(a + 7) - 2(a + 7). The common factor is (a + 7), so the factorization is (a + 7)(a - 2).
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Factoring Trinomials
Factoring trinomials involves rewriting a quadratic expression in the form ax² + bx + c as a product of two binomials. The goal is to find two numbers that multiply to ac (the product of a and c) and add to b. This process simplifies solving quadratic equations and helps in graphing parabolas.
A prime trinomial is a quadratic expression that cannot be factored into the product of two binomials with rational coefficients. Identifying a trinomial as prime is essential when factoring, as it indicates that no integer solutions exist for the factors. Recognizing prime trinomials helps avoid unnecessary attempts at factoring.
The FOIL method is a technique used to multiply two binomials, standing for First, Outside, Inside, Last. This method ensures that all terms are accounted for when expanding the product. After factoring a trinomial, using FOIL to check the factorization confirms its accuracy by returning to the original expression.