Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Factoring Polynomials
Factoring polynomials involves rewriting a polynomial as a product of its simpler components, or factors. This process is essential for simplifying expressions, solving equations, and analyzing polynomial behavior. Common techniques include identifying common factors, using the distributive property, and applying special factoring formulas such as the difference of squares or perfect square trinomials.
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Common Factor
A common factor is a term that appears in each part of a polynomial expression. Identifying the greatest common factor (GCF) allows for simplification of the polynomial by factoring it out. In the given expression, both terms share factors of y and (3x - 1), which can be factored out to simplify the polynomial.
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Graphs of Common Functions
Exponents and Power Rules
Understanding exponents and power rules is crucial when factoring polynomials that contain variables raised to powers. The power rule states that when multiplying like bases, you add the exponents, and when dividing, you subtract them. This knowledge helps in simplifying expressions and correctly factoring terms with variable exponents, ensuring accurate results in polynomial manipulation.
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