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Polynomial Multiplication and Division

Jul 9, 2025

Overview

This lecture covers how to multiply and divide binomials and multinomials using distributive, FOIL, and vertical methods, including worked examples and practice activities.

Multiplying Monomials by Polynomials

  • A monomial has one term; a binomial has two; a trinomial has three; a multinomial has more than three.
  • To multiply a monomial by a polynomial, distribute the monomial to each term of the polynomial.
  • For variables with the same base, add their exponents when multiplying.
  • Combine like terms only if variables and exponents match.

Dividing Polynomials by a Monomial

  • Divide each term of the polynomial (dividend) by the monomial (divisor) separately.
  • For coefficients, divide the numbers; for variables with the same base, subtract the exponents.
  • Keep the operation signs as in the original polynomial.
  • Combine like terms only if variables and exponents match.

Multiplying Binomials (Distributive, FOIL, Vertical Methods)

  • Distributive Property: Multiply each term in the first binomial by each term in the second, then combine like terms.
  • FOIL Method: Multiply terms in this order: First, Outer, Inner, Last.
    • Example: (x + 8)(x + 3) → x² + 11x + 24.
  • Vertical Method: Align the binomials vertically and perform multiplication similar to long multiplication; add like terms to get the result.

Practice and Activities

  • Practice multiplying and dividing polynomials using the provided examples.
  • Try each method for multiplying binomials and check answers against the solutions shown.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Monomial — a polynomial with one term (e.g., 3x).
  • Binomial — a polynomial with two terms (e.g., x + 4).
  • Trinomial — a polynomial with three terms.
  • Multinomial — a polynomial with more than three terms.
  • Distributive Property — multiplying one term by each term inside a parenthesis.
  • FOIL Method — a technique for multiplying two binomials: First, Outer, Inner, Last.
  • Vertical Method — a way of multiplying polynomials arranged vertically, similar to long multiplication.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Complete the practice activity for multiplying and dividing polynomials by monomials.
  • Practice binomial multiplication using distributive, FOIL, or vertical methods and check your work with provided answers.
  • Review key terms and definitions before the next lesson.