Solving Polynomial Equations – Factoring Method A special property is needed to solve polynomial equations by the method of factoring. If a ∙ b = 0 then a = 0 or b = 0. Principle of Zero Products In words, if the product of two quantities is zero, then at least one of the factors must be zero.
Factoring Method to Solve Polynomial Equations 1.Move all non-zero terms to one side of the equation and simplify. 2.Factor the polynomial expression. 3.Set each factor containing a variable equal to zero. 4.Solve the resulting equations.
Example 1: Move all terms to left side Factor Set each factor to zero Solve each equation. Solve the equation
Example 2: Move all terms to right side since the leading term is positive on that side Factor Set each factor to zero Solve each equation. Solve the equation