Lesson 2.2

In lesson 2.2, we will be able to divide using long division and divide using synthetic division.

Steps

• To set up the problem, first, set the denominator equal to zero to find the number to put in the division box. Next, make sure the numerator is written in descending order and if any terms are missing you must use a zero to fill in the missing term, finally list only the coefficient in the division problem.
• Once the problem is set up correctly, bring the leading coefficient (first number) straight down.
• Multiply the number in the division box with the number you brought down and put the result in the next column.
• Add the two numbers together and write the result in the bottom of the row.
• Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you reach the end of the problem.
• Write the final answer. The final answer is made up of the numbers in the bottom row with the last number being the remainder and the remainder must be written as a fraction. The variables or x’s start off one power less than the original denominator and go down one with each term.

Steps

• Make sure the polynomial is written in descending order. If any terms are missing, use a zero to fill in the missing term (this will help with the spacing).
• Divide the term with the highest power inside the division symbol by the term with the highest power outside the division symbol.
• Multiply (or distribute) the answer obtained in the previous step by the polynomial in front of the division symbol.
• Subtract and bring down the next term.
• Repeat Steps 2, 3, and 4 until there are no more terms to bring down.
• Write the final answer. The term remaining after the last subtract step is the remainder and must be written as a fraction in the final answer.

SAT Prep