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Example 6.84 from Elementary Algebra, 6.6 Divide Polynomials
Divide Polynomials: example 6.84
Find the quotient:
Work it out on paper first. Then open the solution one step at a time, and stop as soon as you can finish on your own.
Solution
Write it as a long division problem. Be sure the dividend is in standard form. Divide x2 by x. It may help to ask yourself, "What do I need to multiply x by to get x2?" Put the answer, x, in the quotient over the x term. Multiply x times x + 5. Line up the like terms under the dividend. Subtract x2 + 5x from x2 + 9x.
Then bring down the last term, 20.Divide 4x by x. It may help to ask yourself, "What do I need to
multiply x by to get 4x?"Put the answer, 4, in the quotient over the constant term. Multiply 4 times x + 5. Subtract 4x + 20 from 4x + 20. Check: Multiply the quotient by the divisor. (x + 4)(x + 5) You should get the dividend. x2 + 9x + 20✓
Your turn
The book's Try It right after this example: same idea, new numbers. Only the answer is given.
Find the quotient:
How did it go?