Dividing Polynomials Using Long Division
Remember how you use long division with numbers? Well, the same process works for polynomials too! The setup looks similar - you have a divisor, dividend, quotient, and sometimes a remainder.
When dividing polynomials, you need to arrange terms in descending order (highest power to lowest). If a term is missing, like if you have x³ + 2x - 5 without an x² term, insert a placeholder with a zero coefficient x3+0x2+2x−5.
The process follows the same SMSB algorithm you use with numbers: Subtract, Multiply, Subtract, and Bring down. When you finish, write your answer as: quotient + remainder/divisor Q+R/D. You can check your work by confirming that dividend = (divisor)(quotient) + remainder.
Pro Tip: When dividing polynomials, line up terms with the same powers of x directly above/below each other to avoid making errors. This visual organization makes the process much easier!