How to Remove a Common Binomial Factor

Polynomials with One Common Binomial

• 1

  Examine the polynomial 2b(x -- 2y) -- w(x -- 2y). The parenthetical binomial, (x -- 2y), is the GCF between the two terms 2b(x -- 2y) and w(x -- 2y).

• 2

  Write the GCF in parentheses, (x -- 2y).

• 3

  Divide the polynomial by the GCF and write the remainder in parentheses so that the solution is written as a product of binomials, (x -- 2y)(2b -- w).

Polynomials with Two Common Binomials

• 4

  Examine the polynomial a^2(3a + 5) + a(3a + 5). Here there are two common factors, (a) and (3a + 5).

• 5

  Pull out the first of the common factors. Divide the terms by the GCF and write the remainder as a product of binomials, (a)[(a)(3a + 5) + (1)(3a + 5)].

• 6

  Remove the second common factor, (3a + 5) and write the remaining terms as a product of the binomials, (a)(3a + 5)(a + 1).