Dividing Polynomials Like a Pro
Polynomial division mirrors long division with numbers, but uses variables. Arrange both polynomials in standard form, then divide the leading terms, multiply back through, subtract, and repeat until finished.
For synthetic division, you can only divide by linear factors like x−c. This shortcut method uses just coefficients - write them in a row, use the value c, then multiply and add in a pattern. It's much faster once you get the hang of it.
When dividing x³ - 6x² + 11x - 6 by x - 2, synthetic division gives quotient x² - 4x + 3 with remainder 0. This means x−2 divides evenly into the original polynomial.
Real-world connection: Division helps find average rates - like calculating monthly profit averages for businesses over different time periods.