Algebra

Clifford Jed A. de Leon

Cool Edge

July, 2024

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Introduction

Algebra is a language. Learning its vocabulary is important if

you want to get a good grasp at it. Many math problems
cannot be solved with just arithmetic.

Thus, in this lesson you will be learning about constant,

variable, coefficient, base, exponent, power, term, similar and
dissimilar terms, and algebraic expressions – the building
blocks of the language of Algebra

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exploration Activity

Below is an example of an algebraic expression. Your task is to

identify what the encircled numbers and letter are called.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definitions

A constant is a fixed value. A constant is a number on its

own, or sometimes a letter such as a , b , or c to stand for a
fixed number.
In “ x + 5 = 9”, 5 and 9 are constants.

In “ C = 2πr ”, 2 and π are constants.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definitions

A variable is a letter that is used to represent unknown values

or quantities. The value that a variable represents can vary.
In “ 5x 3 − x + 8”, x is a variable.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definitions
In the exploration activity, 5x 3 − x + 8 is called an algebraic
expression. An algebraic expression is defined as the sum
and/or difference of terms. A term is an algebraic expression
which can be interpreted as a product. An algebraic expression
is only a phrase. This means that it does not have equal signs
and inequality symbols. Below are other examples of algebraic
expressions.
−3x 4 y 2
x 3 + 3x 2 + 3x + 1
b 2 − 4ac
1
bh
2
s2
−18
Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra
Definitions
A term is an algebraic expression which can be interpreted as a
product. It could be a product of constants, a product of
variables, or a product of constants and variables. Below are
some examples of algebraic terms.
5
−18
1
2
3x 2
−4m 2 n 3 o 5
x
−
4
5÷x
4(x + y)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Identify the number of terms in each algebraic expression.

2x + 3 Answer: 2 terms
5x 2 y Answer: 1 term
10 − 3x + 4y − z 2 Answer: 4 terms
xy
− Answer: 1 term
4
x−y
Answer: 1 term
2
x
− 4y 3 Answer: 2 terms
3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definitions

A constant term is a term in an algebraic expression that

contains only constants. Since a constant term does not
involve a variable, its value does not change. In “ 5x 3 − x + 8”,
8 is a constant term.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definitions

A coefficient is a factor or group of factors in a product. It is

either numerical or literal. If the factor is a number, it is called
a numerical coefficient; and if the factor is a letter, it is called
a literal coefficient.

In “ 5x 3 − x + 8”, 5 is the numerical coefficient of x 3 . Now,

consider “ 7x y z ”. In this expression, we can say that 7 is the
numerical coefficient of x y z ; and we may also say that x is
the literal coefficient of 7y z .

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definitions

A base is a number or variable that is multiplied by itself. The

number/expression, which the base is raised to, is called an
exponent. A positive integer exponent indicates the number of
times the base is used as a factor. In the term “ 5x 3 ”, x is the
base and 3 is its exponent. Moreover, the base and exponent
make up a power. For example, 10 to the 3rd power may be
written as 103 .

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definitions

Consider the terms 3x 3 y and −7x 3 y . Observe that these

terms have the same variables; and the exponents of the
variables for both terms are also the same. Such terms are
called similar terms. On the other hand, terms having
different variables or exponents of the variables (or both) are
called dissimilar terms.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Determine whether the pair of terms are similar or dissimilar.

2s and 5t Answer: Dissimilar
5x and x Answer: Similar
−5abc 2 and 7ab 2 c 2 Answer: Dissimilar
m 3 n and −3m 3 n Answer: Similar
8 and −1/2 Answer: Similar
1
x and x Answer: Similar
5
5h 2 and 5h 2 Answer: Similar
8m and 3 Answer: Dissimilar

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definitions
The degree of a term in a variable is the exponent of the
variable in that term; and the degree of a term in two or
more variables is the sum of the exponents of those
variables, etc.

Example 1: The following table summarizes the degree of each

term of the expression “ 5x 3 − x + 8”
terms 5x 3 −x 8
degree of term 3 1 0
Example 2: −4x 5 y 3 + 2x y 6 − 10x y
terms −4x 5 y 3 2x y 6 −10x y
degree with respect to x 5 1 1
degree with respect to y 3 6 1
degree of term 8 7 2
Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra
Example

Arrange 7x 3 + 8x 4 − 2x + 45 − 15x 6 − 52x 5 + x 2 in (a)

descending and (b) ascending degrees.

Answer:
(a.) − 15x 6 − 52x 5 + 8x 4 + 7x 3 + x 2 − 2x + 45
(b.) 45 − 2x + x 2 + 7x 3 + 8x 4 − 52x 5 − 15x 6

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Arrange −18x y 2 + y 3 + 14x 2 y + 3x 3 in (a) descending degrees

with respect to x ; (b) ascending degrees with respect to x ; (c)
descending degrees with respect to y (b) ascending degrees
with respect to y .

Answer:
(a.) 3x 3 + 14x 2 y − 18x y 2 + y 3
(b.) y 3 − 18x y 2 + 14x 2 y + 3x 3
(c.) y 3 − 18x y 2 + 14x 2 y + 3x 3
(d.) 3x 3 + 14x 2 y − 18x y 2 + y 3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definitions

Terms which have the same variables and exponents of the

variables are called similar terms. For example, 3x 3 y and
−7x 3 y are similar terms On the other hand, terms having
different variables or exponents of the variables (or both) are
called dissimilar terms.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

An algebraic expression is said to be simplified if there are no

more terms that involve grouping symbols and if there are no
more terms that are similar. So, in order to simplify an
algebraic expression, the following steps may be taken.
1. Perform first the operation/s on the terms that involve
grouping symbols. If there are no terms involving
grouping symbols, you may proceed to the next step.
2. Combine the terms that are similar through addition or
subtraction.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Take Note

When adding or subtracting similar terms, we only add or

subtract the numerical coefficients of the terms, then copy the
variable/s (including the exponents) common to the terms.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Simplify 2x + 4x .

= (2 + 4)x Add the coefficients of similar terms.

= 6x Simplify.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Simplify 5a + 8a 2 − 3a + 7a 2 .

= (5 − 3)a + (8 + 7)a 2 Add the coefficients of similar terms.

= 2a + 15a 2 Simplify.
2
= 15a + 2a Alternative answer.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Simplify 2(c 2 − 6c) + 5(3c + 1).

= 2(c 2 ) + 2(−6c) + 5(3c) + 5(1)

= 2c 2 − 12c + 15c + 5
= 2c 2 + (−12 + 15)c + 5
= 2c 2 + 3c + 5

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Simplify 3x 2 y + 8x y 2 + 4x 2 y − x y 2 .

= (3 + 4)x 2 y + (8 − 1)x y 2
= 7x 2 y + 7x y 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Simplify 10x 3 − 14x 2 + x − 2.

Expression is already simplified. Dissimilar terms cannot be

combined.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Evaluate the following:

1. 23x + 48x = 71x
2. −67s 2 + 39s 2 = −28s 2
3. 36ab + 27ab = 63ab
4. 13x y 2 + 18x y 2 = 31x y 2
5. 4(2x + 5) + 3(x − 7) = 11x − 1
6. 2(4y 3 + y 2 ) − 7y 2 = 8y 3 − 5y 2
7. 5(x 2 y + x y 2 ) + 3(x 2 y 2 − 4x y 2 ) = 5x 2 y + 3x 2 y 2 − 7x y 2
8. 7(r − r 2 ) + 8(r − r 2 ) = 15r − 15r 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise: (continued)

Evaluate the following:

1 1
9. (18a + 12b) − (21a − 42b) = 2a + 20b
2 3
1 2
10. (24m 2 n − 8mn 2 ) + (9m 2 n + 15mn 2 ) = 12m 2 n + 8mn 2
4 3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

To evaluate an algebraic expression, you have to substitute

the given values for each variable in the expression, then
perform the operations. In performing the operations, be sure
to follow the GEMDAS rule for the order of operations.
Substitution Property of Equality
For all real numbers x and y , if x = y , then x can be
substituted by y in any equation, and y can be substituted by
x in any equation.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Evaluate x 3 + 3x 2 + 3x + 1. Use x = 3.
= (3)3 + 3(3)2 + 3(3) + 1
= 27 + 3(9) + 9 + 1
= 27 + 27 + 9 + 1
= 64

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

1
Evaluate bh . Use b = 4 and h = 5.
2
1
= (4)(5)
2
= 10

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Evaluate b 2 − 4ac . Use a = 2, b = −5 and c = −12.

= (−5)2 − 4(2)(−12)
= 25 + 96
= 121

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

1 ¡ 2
π R + r 2 + Rr h . Use R = 6, r = 3 and h = 2.
¢
Evaluate
3
1 £
= π (6)2 + (3)2 + (6)(3) (2)
¤
3
1
= π [36 + 9 + 18] (2)
3
1
= π [63] (2)
3
= 42π

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Evaluate x 2 + y 2 + z 2 − 2x y + 2xz − 2y z . Use x = −2, y = 3,

and z = −4.
= (−2)2 + (3)2 + (−4)2 − 2(−2)(3) + 2(−2)(−4) − 2(3)(−4)
= 4 + 9 + 16 + 12 + 16 + 24
= 81

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

1
1. (b 1 + b 2 )h . Use b 1 = 5, b 2 = 9, and h = 7.
2
Answer: 49
2. (x + y)(x 2 − x y + y 2 ) Use x = 6 and y = −2.
Answer: 208
3. 2πr 2 + 2πr h Use r = 10 and h = 15.
Answer: 500π
4. x 3 + 6x 2 + 11x + 6 Use x = 4.
Answer: 210
5. x 1000 − y 500 Use x = −1 and y = 1.
Answer: 0

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exploration Activity

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Addition

Keyword/Phrase Example Translation

plus A number plus eight x +8
more than Five more than a number x +5
more than A number more than 5 5+x
The sum of a number
the sum of x + 11
and eleven
The total of twenty and
the total of 20 + x
a number
A number increased
increased by x + 36
by thirty-six

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Addition (continued)

Keyword/Phrase Example Translation

Fifty-nine added
added to x + 59
to a number

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Subtraction

Keyword/Phrase Example Translation

minus A number minus fifteen x − 15
less than Two less than a number x −2
less than A number less than 2 2−x
The difference of a
the difference of x −9
number and nine
less A number less twelve x − 12
A number decreased
decreased by x − 14
by fourteen
Eight subtracted
subtracted from x −8
from a number

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Multiplication

Keyword/Phrase Example Translation

times Seven times a number 7x
The product of six
the product of 6x
and a number
twice Twice a number 2x
thrice Thrice a number 3x
A number multiplied
multiplied by 5x
by 5
Three fourths of 3
of x
a number 4

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Division

Keyword/Phrase Example Translation

The quotient of a x
the quotient of
number and three 3
Twenty-four divided 24
divided by
by a number x
x
the ratio of The ratio of two numbers
y

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exponentiation

Keyword/Phrase Example Translation

the square of The square of a number x 2
squared A number squared x2
the cube of The cube of a number x3
cubed A number cubed x3
raised A number raised to four x 4

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Translate the word phrase into a mathematical expression.

x
1. The ratio of a number and three Answer:
3
2. Twice a number increased by six Answer: 2x + 6
3. Thrice the sum of a number and ten
Answer: 3(x + 10)
4. Sixty more than five times a number
Answer: 5x + 60
5. Three less than eight times a number
Answer: 8x − 3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise (Continued)

Translate the word phrase into a mathematical expression.

6. The quotient of a number squared and eight
x2
Answer:
8
7. The cube of a number decreased by two
Answer: x 3 − 2
8. The product of three and the square of a number
Answer: 3x 2
9. The difference between thrice a number and four
Answer: 3x − 4
x
10. Twice a number plus half the same number 2x +
2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Concept Review

Some of the mathematical sentences involve equations and

inequalities, which are two of the very important mathematical
tools that we can use to solve problems that we encounter in
our everyday lives.

An equation is a mathematical statement that involve the

symbol =, which is used to denote that two expressions are
equal.

An inequality is a mathematical statement that involve the

symbols >, <, or 6= to denote that two expressions are not
equal.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

A numerical expression is a mathematical statement

involving numbers only which are combined by arithmetic
operations. On the other hand, an open expression/
variable expression is a mathematical statement involving
numbers or variables or a combination of both, which are
connected by arithmetic operations.
Numerical Expression Open Expression
153 + 87 − 206 + 98 3x 2 + 5x − 8
8 ÷ [2(2 + 2)] b 2 − 4ac
2[3 + 7(33 − 74)] 2πr h + 2πr 2
6(5) − 18 + 48 − 24 x2 − y 2
42 + 25 − 2(32 − 62 ) x + 3x y + 3x y 2 + y 3
3 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

A numerical sentence is a mathematical statement that is

either true or false. On the other hand, an open
sentence/variable sentence is a mathematical sentence
that is neither true nor false. This means that the truthfulness
or falsity of the sentence depends on the value/s substituted
for each variable in the sentence.
Numerical Sentence Open Sentence
2
3 + 15 = 24 x + 15 = 25
5(12 − 42 ) < 0 x −5 < 3
13 + 4(62 − 18) > 92 2
x + 2x + 1 > 3
7 − 4(3)(−5) 6= 102 + 11
2
3x + 16 ≥ 2(x − 4)
43 ≥ 82 − 1 4(2x + 5) ≤ −10 + 3(7x + 2)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example:
NE (Numerical Expression); NS (Numerical Sentence); OE
(Open Expression); OS (Open Sentence)
1. 2x + 4 OE
2. 3 + (−5) NE
3. x 2 − 4 > 0 OS
4. 7x − 12 = 3 OS
5. 2x 2 + 3x − 1 OE
6. 8(−3) < x + 1 OS
7. −42 + 7 = −32 NS
8. −4 + (−7) − (−6) NE
9. 4(3) + 7 ≥ 22 − 3 NS
10. x 3 + 3x 2 + 3x + 1 OE

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:
NE (Numerical Expression); NS (Numerical Sentence); OE
(Open Expression); OS (Open Sentence)
1. 52 − 18 + 24 NE
2. 4(33 ) + 20 > 60 − 42 NS
3. 7x − 16 = 5(x + 1) OS
4. 42 + 5(8 − 22 ) 6= 92 − 43 NS
5. (x − 3)2 + 2x − 5 OE
6. 4x 2 − 4x + 1 OE
7. 13x < 3(5x + 11) OS
8. 5 − 4(11 − 23 ) NE
9. 3x 2 + 15 ≥ 4 OS
10. 63 − 216 NE

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Word Statements into Open Statements-Equality

Keyword/Phrase Example Translation

Nine less than a
equals x −9 = 6
number equals six.
Six more than a
is x + 6 = 10
number is ten.
Twice a number is
is the same as 2x = 4
the same as four
A number less than four
yields 4−x = 7
yields seven.
Five times a number
amounts to 5x = 15
amounts to fifteen

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Word Statements into Open Statements-Inequality

Keyword/Phrase Example Translation

Four less than a number
not equal to x − 4 6= 5
is not equal to five.
Five times a number minus
greater than 5x − 9 > 6
nine is greater than six
greater than or Thrice a number less four is
3x − 4 ≥ 15
equal to greater than or equal to fifteen
Eight more than seven times
less than 7x + 8 < 12
a number is less than twelve
Eighteen is less than
less than or
or equal to three times 18 ≤ 3(x + 10)
equal to
the sum of a number and ten.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Translate the statement into an open sentence.

1. The sum of twice a number and three is four times the
difference of the number and ten. 2x + 3 = 4(x − 10)
2. The square of a number less nine is greater than or equal
to sixteen. x 2 − 9 ≥ 16
3. The cube of a number less than three is less than
twenty-four. 3 − x 3 < 24
4. Half a number is not ten less than twice the same
1
number. x 6= 2x − 10
2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Reflexive Property
For a ∈ R, a = a .

(Any real number is equal to itself.)

Examples:

5=5
2−4+7 = 7+2−4
−17 = −17
0=0

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Symmetric Property
For a, b ∈ R, if a = b , then b = a .

(The values in the two sides of the equality symbol can be

switched.)
Examples:

If 2 + 6 = 8, then 8 = 2 + 6.

If x = −7 + v , then −7 + v = x .

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Transitive Property
For a, b, c ∈ R, if a = b , and b = c , then a = c .

If a value is equal to a second value, and the second value is

equal to a third value, then the first value and the third value
are equal.
Examples:
If x = a , and a = −3, then x = −3.
If p + q = m − 2n , and m − 2n = 9 − x , then p + q = 9 − x .
If Mario is as old as Princess, and Princess is as old as Anna,
then Mario is as old as Anna.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Addition Property of Equality (APE)

For a, b, c ∈ R, if a = b , then a + c = b + c .

Adding the same value to both sides of an equality results to

an equality.
Examples:
If k = 5m , then k + 8 = 5m + 8.
If c = −7, then c + (−14) = −7 + (−14) or c − 14 = −21.
Marga has as many pairs of shoes as Cassey. If each of them
receives a dozen shoes more, Marga will still have as many
pairs of shoes as Cassey.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Multiplication Property of Equality

For a, b, c ∈ R, if a = b , then a · c = b · c .

Multiplying the same value to both sides of an equality will

result to an equality.
Examples:

If g = 6, then −4 · g = −4 · 6 or −4g = −24.

If x − y = 2, then 11 · (x − y) = 11 · 2 or 11x − 11y = 22.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Cancellation Law of Addition

For a, b, c ∈ R, if a + c = b + c , then a = b .

Subtracting the same number from both sides of the equality

results in an equality.
Examples:

If c + e = x + e , then c = x .
If y − 5 = 6 or y + (−5) = 11 + (−5), then y = 11.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Cancellation Property of Multiplication

For a, b, c ∈ R, if a · c = b · c , then a = b .

Dividing the same nonzero value to both sides of an equality

will result to an equality.
Examples:

If d · g = −5 · g , then d = −5.
If x · (−y) = 0 · (−y), then x = 0.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Identify the property of equality that is shown in each item.

1. If x = −8, then 2x = −16. MPE
2. If 5g = −35, then g = −7. MPE or Cancellation Law of
Multiplication
3. h + 5 = h + 5 Reflexive Property
4. Cindy and Rose have the same number of pet dogs. If
Rose and Snow have the same number of pet dogs, then,
Snow and Cindy has the same number of pet dogs.
Transitive Property
5. If Elsa is Anna’s sister, then Anna is Elsa’s sister.
Symmetric Property

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise: (continued)

6. −7c = −7c Reflexive Property

7. If 10 = t , then t = 10. Symmetric Property
8. If 3 = g , then 3 − 7 = g − 7. Addition Property of Equality
9. If 4b = 8, then b = 2. MPE or Cancellation Law of
Multipliction
10. If w = 3v and 3v = −20, then w = −20. Transitive
Property

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Cancellation Property of Multiplication

For a, b, c ∈ R, if a · c = b · c , then a = b .

Dividing the same nonzero value to both sides of an equality

will result to an equality.
Examples:

If d · g = −5 · g , then d = −5.
If x · (−y) = 0 · (−y), then x = 0.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Identity
A linear equation is classified as an identity if the equation
becomes true for all values.
Examples:
4a = 3a + a
−19z = −19z
x +1−x = 1
x 2 − y 2 = (x + y)(x − y)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Conditional
A linear equation is classified as conditional if the equation
becomes true for some (but not all) values.
Examples:
x + 6 = −7
w = −35
3 − y = −19
v − 3 = 2v − 3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Contradiction
A linear equation is classified as a contradiction if the
equation becomes a false statement for all values.
Examples:
h + 5 = h − 17
4c + 5 − 3c = c + 7
g −4 = g
2d + 3d = 5d − 8

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Practice Exercise:
Identify whether each Linear Equation in One Variable is a/an
Identity, Conditional or Contradiction.
1. a = 2a + 3 Conditional
2. b = 5 − b Conditional
3. 3c − 5 = c − 5 + 2c Identity
4. 5d + 1 = 2d + 1 + 3d Identity
5. 7e = e + 11 Conditional
6. 2 f + f + 6 = f + 2 f − 6 Contradiction
7. 4(3g ) = 2(2g + 4g ) Identity
8. h + 10 = −5 Conditional
9. 4( j + 5) = 4 j + 20 Identity
10. 2k − 2k = 14 − k Conditional

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definitions

Linear Equation in One Variable

A linear equation in one variable is an equation that can be
written as ax + b = c where a , b , and c are constants and x is
the unknown/variable. It can be simplified in the form
variable = constant using the properties of equality.

Solving LEOV’s
To solve a linear equation in one variable (LEOV) means to
find its solution set.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve x + 5 = 7.

x +5 = 7 Given
x + 5 + (−5) = 7 + (−5) APE
x = 7−5 Simplify
x =2 Subtraction

Checking:
x +5 = 7 Given
?
(2) + 5 = 7 Substitution
X
7=7 Addition
The solution set for the linear equation x + 5 = 7 is {2}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve y − 36 = 42.

y − 36 = 42 Given
y = 42 + 36 APE
y = 78 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation y − 36 = 42 is {78}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve 7 − m = 0.

7 − m = 0 Given
7=m APE

The solution set for the linear equation 7 − m = 0 is {7}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

 4 3
Solve q + = − .
7 7

4 3
q+ =− Given
7 7
3 4
q =− − APE
7 7
7
q =− Simplify
7
q = −1 Simplify

4 3
The solution set for the linear equation q + = − is {−1}.
7 7

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve x − 1.5 = 2.5.

x − 1.5 = 2.5 Given

x = 2.5 + 1.5 APE
x =4 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation x − 1.5 = 2.5 is {4}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve 37x = −111.

37x = −111 Given

1 1
· 37x = · (−111) MPE
37 37
−111
1·x = Simplify
37
x = −3 Simplifiy

The solution set for the linear equation 37x = −111 is {−3}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve 12y − 4y = −776.

12y − 4y = −776 Given

8y = −776 Simplify
8y −776
= MPE
8 8
y = −97 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation 12y − 4y = −776 is

{−97}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

 6
Solve − m = 42.
5

6
− m = 42 Given
5 µ ¶ µ ¶
6 6 6
− m ÷ − = 42 ÷ − MPE
5 5 5
m = −35 Simplify

6
The solution set for the linear equation − m = 42 is {−35}.
5

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve 0.13q = 0.91.

0.13q = 0.91 Given

0.13q 0.91
= MPE
0.13 0.13
q =7 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation 0.13q = 0.91 is {7}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

 1 1
Solve − z + z = 48.
2 4

1 1
− z + z = 48 Given
2 4
1
− z = 48 Simplify
4
1
− 4 · − z = −4 · 48 MPE
4
z = −192 Simplify

1 1
The solution set for the linear equation − z + z = 48 is
2 4
{−192}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Practice Exercises:

Find the solution for each LEOV.

1 43q = −215
Ans: −5
2 79n = −395
Ans: −5
3 z − 76 = 102
Ans: 178
4 84 − x = 76
Ans: 8
3 5
5 −r =
4 8
1
Ans:
8

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Practice Exercises: (continued)

6 11.62 − s = 1.57
Ans: 10.05
7 2.2t = 88
Ans: 40
5
8 z = 75
9
Ans: 135
9 12b − 4b = −776
Ans: −97
1 2
10 x + x = 22
2 7
Ans: 28

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve 8e + 1 = −31.

8e + 1 = −31 Given
8e = −31 − 1 APE
8e = −32 Simplify
8e −32
= MPE
8 8
e = −4 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation 8e + 1 = −31 is {−4}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

 2x
Solve 7 = + 3.
5

2x
7= +3 Given
5
2x
7−3 = APE
5
2x
4= Simplify
5
5 · 4 = 2x MPE
20 = 2x Simplify
10 = x MPE

2x
The solution set for the linear equation 7 = + 3 is {10}.
5

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve 4a + 7 + 2a = 19.

4a + 7 + 2a = 19 Given
6a + 7 = 19 Simplify
6a = 19 − 7 APE
6a = 12 Simplify
6a 12
= MPE
6 6
a =2 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation 4a + 7 + 2a = 19 is {2}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve 0.15y + 0.025 = −0.08.

0.15y + 0.025 = −0.08 Given

0.15y = −0.08 − 0.025 APE
0.15y = −0.105 Simplify
0.15y −0.105
= MPE
0.15 0.15
y = −0.7 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation 0.15y + 0.025 = −0.08
is {−0.7}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

 1 13
Solve x + 3 = .
2 2

1 13
x +3 = Given
2 · 2¸ · ¸
1 13
2· x +3 = 2· MPE
2 2
x + 6 = 13 Simplify
x = 13 − 6 APE
x =7 Simplify

1 13
The solution set for the linear equation x +3 = is {7}.
2 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve 11z − 3 − 7z = 9.

11z − 3 − 7z = 9 Given
4z − 3 = 9 Simplify
4z = 9 + 3 APE
4z = 12 Simplify
4z 12
= MPE
4 4
z =3 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation 11z − 3 − 7z = 9 is {3}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve 3.6y + 1.2y = 216.

3.6y + 1.2y = 216 Given

4.8y = 216 Simplify
4.8y 216
= MPE
4.8 4.8
y = 45 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation 3.6y + 1.2y = 216 is
{45}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Practice Exercises:

Find the solution for each LEOV.

1 3x + 1 = 10
Ans: 3
2 4x + 9 = 5
Ans: −1
3 −5d + 3 = 15
12
Ans: −
5
4 −9k + 21 = 66
Ans: −5
3
5 − v + 4 = 10
8
Ans: −16

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Practice Exercises: (continued)

5
6 17 + a = 17
8
Ans: 0
7 0.125z − 0.495 = 5.35
Ans: 46.76
1
8 j −1 = 5
3
Ans: 18
9 −6.5 = 4.3n − 3.06
Ans: −0.8
3w
10 = 17
7−1
Ans: 42

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Practice Exercises: (continued)

Find the solution for each LEOV.

11 929 − 3r = 351
578
Ans:
3
3 25
12 s + 5 = −
8 4
Ans: −30
13 −1 = 5t + 7 − t
Ans: −2
14 6c + 3 + 2c = 11
Ans: 1
2
15 h + 18 − h = 21
5
Ans: −5

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve 6x + 3 = 2x + 11.

6x + 3 = 2x + 11 Given
6x − 2x = 11 − 3 APE
4x = 8 Simplify
4x 8
= MPE
4 4
x =2 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation 6x + 3 = 2x + 11 is {2}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve p + 7 = 2p − 5 + p .

p + 7 = 2p − 5 + p Given
p + 7 = 3p − 5 Simplify
7 + 5 = 3p − p APE
12 = 2p Simplify
12 2p
= MPE
2 2
6=p Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation p + 7 = 2p − 5 + p is {6}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

 x +2 5+x
Solve = .
5 5

x +2 5+x
= Given
5 5
x +2 = 5+x Simplify
x + 2 − x = 5 + x − x APE
2=5 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation is { }.

Note: If solving the LEOV results to a false numerical
statement, it is a contradiction.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve 2.1b + 45.2 = 3.2 − 8.4b .

2.1b + 45.2 = 3.2 − 8.4b Given

2.1b + 8.4b = 3.2 − 45.2 APE
10.5b = −42 Simplify
10.5b −42
= MPE
10.5 10.5
b = −4 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation 2.1b + 45.2 = 3.2 − 8.4b
is {−4}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

 3 1 1
Solve a + = + a + .
4 2 4

3 1 1
a+ = +a+ Given
4 2 4
3 1 1
a+ =a+ + Commutative/Associative
4 2 4
3 3
a+ =a+ Simplify
4 4
The solution is R because the linear equation is an identity.
Note: If the attempt to solve an LEOV results to a true
numerical statement, then the equation is an identity.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve 0.7w − 15 + w = 2w − 8 − 0.4w .

0.7w − 15 + w = 2w − 8 − 0.4w Given

1.7w − 15 = 1.6w − 8 Simplify
1.7w − 1.6w = −8 + 15 APE
0.1w = 7 Simplify
0.1w 7
= MPE
0.1 0.1
w = 70 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation

0.7w − 15 + w = 2w − 8 − 0.4w is {70}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Practice Exercises:

Find the solution set for each LEOV.

1 8p − 35 = 3p
Ans: {7}
1
2 x=x−
3
Ans: { } or ∅
3 5 4
3 − +h = h −
2 6 3
Ans: {1}
4 10 − 3c = 5c − 8c − 24
Ans: R
5 2 25 5 3
5 + x= + x+
3 3 12 3 r
Ans: {−2}

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve 5(2t − 3) = 30.

5(2t − 3) = 30 Given
10t − 15 = 30 DPMA
10t = 30 + 15 APE
10t = 45 Simplify
10t 45
= MPE
10 10
9
t= Simplify
2
The solution set for the linear equation 5(2t − 3) = 30 is {9/2}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve 3r + 2(r − 1) = 7(r + 2).

3r + 2(r − 1) = 7(r + 2) Given

3r + 2r − 2 = 7r + 14 DPMA
5r − 2 = 7r + 14 Simplify
5r − 7r = 14 + 2 APE
− 2r = 16 Simplify
−2r 16
= MPE
−2 −2
r = −8 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation 3r + 2(r − 1) = 7(r + 2)

is {−8}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve [2(x + 5) − 5] + 7 = 3(x − 1).

[2(x + 5) − 5] + 7 = 3(x − 1) Given

[2x + 10 − 5] + 7 = 3x − 3 Simplify
2x + 5 + 7 = 3x − 3 Simplify
2x + 12 = 3x − 3 Simplify
2x − 3x = −3 − 12 APE
− x = −15 Simplify
−x −15
= MPE
−1 −1
x = 15 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation

[2(x + 5) − 5] + 7 = 3(x − 1) is {15}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solve 3[2y − 9 + 6(5y − 1)] = 13(4y + 27).

3[2y − 9 + 6(5y − 1)] = 13(4y + 27) Given

3[2y − 9 + 30y − 6] = 52y + 351 Simplify
3[32y − 15] = 52y + 351 Simplify
96y − 45 = 52y + 351 Simplify
96y − 52y = 351 + 45 APE
44y = 396 Simplify
44y 396
= MPE
44 44
y =9 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation

3[2y − 9 + 6(5y − 1)] = 13(4y + 27) is {9}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

 10(x − 1) 5(2 + x)
Solve = .
4 2

10(x − 1) 5(2 + x)
= Given
4 ¸2
5(2 + x)
· · ¸
10(x − 1)
(4) · = (4) · MPE
4 2
10(x − 1) = 10(2 + x) Simplify
10x − 10 = 20 + 10x Simplify
10x − 10x = 20 + 10 APE
0 = 30 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation is { } because the

equation is a contradiction.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise: 40 = 5(3x + 2).

40 = 5(3x + 2) Given
40 = 15x + 10 DPMA
40 − 10 = 15x APE
30 = 15x Simplify
30 15x
= MPE
15 15
2=x Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation is {2}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise: 5r − (2r + 8) = 16.

5r − (2r + 8) = 16 Given
5r − 2r − 8 = 16 DPMA
3r − 8 = 16 Simplify
3r = 16 + 8 APE
3r = 24 Simplify
3r 24
= MPE
3 3
r =8 Simplify

The solution set for the linear equation is {8}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise: −4[x − 2(2x − 3)] + 1 = 2x − 3.

− 4[x − 2(2x − 3)] + 1 = 2x − 3 Given

− 4[x − 4x + 6] + 1 = 2x − 3 Simplify
− 4[−3x + 6] + 1 = 2x − 3 Simplify
12x − 24 + 1 = 2x − 3 DPMA
12x − 23 = 2x − 3 Simplify
12x − 2x = −3 + 23 APE
10x = 20 Simplify
x =2 MPE

The solution set for the linear equation is {2}.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Recall

Volunteers share to the class what the symbols <, and > mean.

How about ≤ and ≥?

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Translate the following english statements to their algebraic

equivalent.
1 This bridge can handle at most 10 tons.
2 Only vehicles less than 3 meters are allowed to enter this
tunnel.
3 It would take us at least 2 hours to get there.
4 You need to get at least 96% to get a grade of 1.00.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Trichotomy Property of Inequality

The Trichotomy Property of Inequality states that given
any two real numbers a and b , exactly one of the following
statements is true:

a < b, a > b, or a = b
For example, given the two numbers 6 and 15, only one of the
statements: 6 < 15, 6 = 15, and 6 > 15 is true. That is, 6 < 15
is true.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Transitive Property of Inequality

The transitive property of inequality states that given the
numbers a , b , and c ,

if a < b and b < c , then a < c .

Similarly, if a > b and b > c , then a > c .

This also applies for the inequalities ≤ and ≥.

For example, if the statements 5x − 3 < 7 and 7 < 7y + 2 are
true, then we can say that 5x − 2 < 7y + 2 is also true.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Addition and Subtraction Property of Inequality

The addition and subtraction property of inequality
states that an inequality remains true when the same quantity
is added or subtracted to both sides of the inequality. Given
numbers a , b , and c , the property can be described by the
following statements:

If a < b , then a + c < b + c or a − c < b − c .

If a > b , then a + c > b + c or a − c > b − c .

This also applies for the inequalities ≤ and ≥.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition
For example, let us say the inequality a − 3 > 4 is true. Adding
3 to both sides of this inequality by applying the addition
property of inequality, we get:

a −3 > 4
a −3+3 > 4+3
a >7

Consider as well the inequality x + 1 ≤ 9. Subtracting 1 from

both sides, we get:
x +1 ≤ 9
x +1−1 ≤ 9−1
x ≤8

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Multiplication and Division Property of Inequality

The multiplication and division property of inequality
states that an inequality remains true when the same positive
quantity is multiplied or divided to both sides of the inequality.
Otherwise, when the quantity multiplied or divided is negative,
the inequality symbol is reversed.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Multiplication Property of Inequality

For all real numbers a , b , and c where c 6= 0,

If c >0 and a > b, then ac > bc .

If c >0 and a < b, then ac < bc .
If c <0 and a > b, then ac < bc .
If c <0 and a < b, then ac > bc .

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Division Property of Inequality

For all real numbers a , b , and c where c 6= 0,
a b
If c > 0 and a > b , then > .
c c
a b
If c > 0 and a < b , then < .
c c
a b
If c < 0 and a > b , then < .
c c
a b
If c < 0 and a < b , then > .
c c

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Assume that the inequality 2x < 6 is true.

If we apply the Multiplication Property of Inequality by

1
multiplying both sides of the inequality by , we get:
2

2x < 6
1 1
2x · < 6 ·
2 2
x <3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

b 3
Consider the inequality − ≥ . Multiplying −4 to both sides
4 2
of this inequality, we get:
b 3
≥−
4 2
b 3
− · (−4) ≤ · (−4)
4 2
b ≤ −6

Notice that the direction (or sense) of the inequality is

reversed or changed.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Assume that the inequality 6a ≤ −15 is true.

Dividing both sides of the inequality by 6, we get

6a ≤ −15
6a −15
≤
6 6
5
a ≤−
2
Notice that the direction of the inequality does not change.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Consider the inequality −0.3p > −0.12.

Dividing both sides of the inequality by −0.3, we get

− 0.3p > −0.12

−0.3p −0.12
<
−0.3 −0.3
p < 0.4

Notice that the direction of the inequality changed.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Given that the inequalities x + 5 ≤ 10 and 6y ≥ 10 are true,

which among the following inequalities is true?
A. x + 5 > 6y
B. x + 5 ≤ 6y
C. x + 5 < 6y
D. 6y ≤ x + 5
Correct Answer: B

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

If the inequality 2x + 4 > 3 is true, which among the following

inequalities is equivalent?
A. 2x > 1
B. −1 ≤ 2x
C. 2x > −1
D. 2x + 4 ≥ 3
Correct Answer: C

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

If the inequality 6x − 9 ≥ 3x is true, which among the

inequalities is equivalent?
A. −x < −3
B. x ≤3
C. 3x > 9
D. −x ≤ −3
Correct Answer: C or D

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

To solve linear inequalities, you must find all possible values

of x that can satisfy the inequality. Based on the given
inequality, you can do this by manipulating the inequality such
that x is isolated in one side.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Solve 2x + 5 < 7.
2x + 5 < 7 Given
2x + 5 − 5 < 7 − 5 API
2x < 2 Subtraction
2x 2
< MPI
2 2
x <1 Division

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Solve −2x + 13 ≤ 19.

− 2x + 13 ≤ 19 Given
− 2x + 13 − 13 ≤ 19 − 13 API
− 2x ≤ 6 Subtraction
−2x 6
≥ MPI
−2 −2
x ≥ −3 Division

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Solve x + 2 ≥ 4x + 3.
x + 2 ≥ 4x + 3 Given
x + 2 − 4x ≥ 4x + 3 − 4x Subtract 4x from both sides.
− 3x + 2 ≥ 3 Subtraction
− 3x + 2 − 2 ≥ 3 − 2 Subtract 2 from both sides.
− 3x ≥ 1 Subtraction
−3x 1
≤ Divide both sides by − 3
−3 −3
1
x ≤− Division
3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Solve 2x − 5 > 2x + 2.
2x − 5 > 2x + 2 Given
2x − 5 + 5 > 2x + 2 + 5 API
2x > 2x + 7 Addition
2x − 2x > 2x + 7 − 2x Subtract 2x from both sides.
0>7 Subtraction

Since 0 > 7 is a false numerical sentence, the given inequality

has no solution.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

µ ¶
7 11
Solve −11 + 7x ≥ 3 x − .
3 3
µ ¶
7 11
− 11 + 7x ≥ 3 x − Given
3 3
− 11x + 7x ≥ 7x − 11 DPMA
− 11x + 7x − 7x ≥ 7x − 11 − 7x API
− 11 ≥ −11 Subtraction

Since −11 ≥ −11 is a true numerical sentence, the given

inequality is true for all real numbers.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Solve the following inequalities:

x 3
1. +2 >
2 2
Answer: x > −1
x 9
2. +2 ≤
2 2
Answer: x ≤ 5

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Compound Inequalities
Compound Inequalities are statements that contain two or
more inequalities using and/or which are combined through
intersection/union of sets.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Consider the inequalities x < 4 and x > 1. First, let’s observe

the relationship between the two inequalities. If we look at the
set of integers that are less than 4, {3, 2, 1, 0, −1, . . .} and the
set of integers that are greater than 1, {2, 3, 4, . . .}. We can see
that to combine them is to get their intersection: {2, 3}.
Thus, to combine intersecting inequalities, merge the
expression containing x , then copy the numbers and inequality
signs in relation to these expressions. In this case, the resulting
inequality for x < 4 and x > 1 is

1<x <4

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Consider the inequalities x + 4 ≥ 2 and −2x ≥ −4. First, solve

each linear inequality.

x +4 ≥ 2 and − 2x ≥ −4
−2x −4
x ≥ 2−4 and ≤
−2 −2
x ≥ −2 and x ≤2

The resulting compound inequality for x ≥ −2 and x ≤ 2 is

−2 ≤ x ≤ 2.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Consider the inequalities x < 3 or x > 6. First, let’s observe the

relationship between the two inequalities. If we look at the set
of integers that are less than 3 {2, 1, 0, −1, . . .} or the set of
integers that are greater than 6, {7, 8, 9, . . .}, we can see that
to combine these inequalities is to get the union of the two
sets. In this case, the resulting compound inequality is x < 3 or
x > 6.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Consider the inequalities −2x ≥ −2 or 2x + 1 > x − 2. First,

solve the given linear inequalities.

− 2x ≥ −2 or 2x + 1 > x − 2
−2x −2
≤ or 2x − x > −2 − 1
−2 −2
x ≤1 or x > −3

The resulting compound inequality for x ≤ 1 and x > −3 is all

real numbers.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Consider the compound inequality 2 < 2x + 4 < 6.

2 < 2x + 4 < 6
2 − 4 < 2x + 4 − 4 < 6 − 4
− 2 < 2x < 2
−2 2x 2
< <
2 2 2
−1 < x < 1

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Consider the compound inequality 3x < x + 4 or 5 − 3x < −7.

3x < x + 4 or 5 − 3x < −7
3x − x < 4 or − 3x < −7 − 5
2x < 4 or − 3x < −12
2x 4 −3x −12
< or >
2 2 −3 −3
x <2 or x >4

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Solve the following inequalities:

x 3 x 9
1. + 2 > and + 2 ≤
2 2 2 2
Answer: −1 < x ≤ 5
x 3 x 9
2. + 2 > or + 2 ≤
2 2 2 2
Answer: R

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Set-builder Notation
The set-builder notation is a notation that allows you to
show your solution set by specifying the conditions that x
must satisfy. In the case of linear inequalities, the condition
that we usually put is the inequality involving x . The example
below shows the usual form of set- builder notation used to
describe the solution sets of inequalities.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Examples

1. Inequality form: x ≤ 4
Text form: x is less than or equal to 4.
Set-builder Notation: {x | x ≤ 4}
2. Inequality form: x > −1 and x < 1
Text form: x is greater than −1 and x is less than 1
Set-builder Notation: {x | − 1 < x < 1}
3. Inequality form: x < 2 or x ≥ 4
Text form: x is less than 2 or x is greater than or equal
to 4
Set-builder Notation: {x | x < 2 or x ≥ 4}

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Interval Notation
The Interval notation uses the starting and ending numbers
of the solution set to show the interval of the possible values
of x . Brackets “ [ ]” are used to incdicate that the number is
part of the set while parentheses, “ ( )”, are used to indicate
otherwise. The inequality signs, ≥ and ≤, are translated to
brackets while the signs, > and <, are translated to
parentheses.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Examples

1. Inequality form: x ≤ 4
Text form: x is less than or equal to 4.
Interval Notation: (−∞, 4]
2. Inequality form: x > −1 and x < 1
Text form: x is greater than −1 and x is less than 1
Interval Notation: (−1, 1)
3. Inequality form: x < 2 or x ≥ 4
Text form: x is less than 2 or x is greater than or equal
to 4
Interval notation: (−∞, 2) ∪ [4, ∞)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Set-builder Interval
Inequality Form
Notation Notation
x ≤ 15 {x | x ≤ 15} (−∞, 15]
x > −10 {x | x > −10} (−10, ∞)
−3 ≤ x < 20 {x | − 3 ≤ x < 20} [−3, 20)
x < 8 or x ≥ 11 {x | x < 8 or x ≥ 11} (−∞, 8) ∪ [11, ∞)
0.5 < x ≤ 3.1 {x | 0.5 < x ≤ 3.1} (0.5, 3.1]
3x − 4 > 11 {x | x > 5} (5, ∞)
2 − 5x < 7 and
{x | − 1 < x ≤ 3} (−1, 3]
x −1 ≤ 2

For more practice exercises, check Module 6.2.3.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Introduction

Modern context equates polynomials with the special group of

many-termed algebraic expressions. However, the word
polynomial is an amalgamation of the Greek word poly
(meaning many ), and the Latin word nomen (meaning name),
and hence, it literally means many-named. This sort of a
hybrid term for a select group of algebraic expression may be
attributed to its specific name depending upon its number of
terms – names such as monomial, binomial, trinomial, and so
on. Polynomials are a special group of algebraic expressions,
hence, our understanding on them is dependent on our
understanding of algebraic expressions.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Introduction

Informally, algebraic expressions are a combination of the usual

numbers, referred to as constants; some small letters of the
alphabet, referred to as variables, which represent with a single
symbol any member of a specific set of numbers but without
specifying any of them; and the mathematical operations,
(multiplication, division, addition, subtraction, and the likes),
among and in between said constants and variables.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Introduction

The fundamental building blocks of any algebraic expressions

are the terms, which may be just a constant (e.g., 2), or just a
single variable (e.g., x ), or a product of a constant and a
variable (e.g., 2x ), or a product of a constant and variables
(e.g., 2x 2 y 3 ).

An algebraic expression may therefore be a single term or a

sum/difference of two or more terms.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Polynomial
A Polynomial is an algebraic term or a sum of two or more
finite algebraic terms, each of which is of the form
n n n
a(x 1 1 )(x 2 2 ) . . . (x i i ) where a ∈ R, a 6= 0, each of the subscripted
x is a distinct variable base, each of the respective subscripted
n is a whole number exponent (i.e., any numbers 0, 1, 2, . . .),
and i is the number of variables.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition (continued)

Polynomial
n n n
a(x 1 1 )(x 2 2 ) . . . (x i i )

A monomial is a polynomial consisting of a single term, while

a binomial and a trinomial are polynomials consisting of two
terms and three terms, respectively.

The degree of a monomial is the sum of its subscripted

exponents, that is

degree = n 1 + n 2 + . . . + n i

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Identify whether the given expression is a polynomial or not a

polynomial. If it is a polynomial, state the number of variables
and its degree.
5r 3 s 2
Answer: It is a polynomial with two variables, namely r and s
and its degree is n 1 + n 2 = 3 + 2 = 5.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Identify whether the given expression is a polynomial or not a

polynomial. If it is a polynomial, state the number of variables
and its degree.
x y 3 − 2x 2 z
Answer: It is a polynomial with two terms. The first term has
two variables, namely x and y and its degree is
n 1 + n 2 = 1 + 3 = 4. The second term has two variables, namely
x and z and its degree is n 1 + n 2 = 2 + 1 = 3. The degree of the
binomial is 4 (the term with the highest degree).

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Identify whether the given expression is a polynomial or not a

polynomial. If it is a polynomial, state the number of variables
and its degree.
x −2
Answer: It is NOT a polynomial. The exponent of x is NOT a
whole number.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Identify whether the given expression is a polynomial or not a

polynomial. If it is a polynomial, state the number of variables
and its degree.
1
y2
Answer: It is NOT a polynomial. The exponent of y is NOT a
whole number. For those who are curious, the meaning of
such exponent is for a future lesson.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Identify whether the given expression is a polynomial or not a

polynomial. If it is a polynomial, state the number of variables
and its degree.
7
Answer: It is a polynomial with no variable and of degree is 0.
It can be written as 7x 0 where x 6= 0 since as you will learn
later in the next chapter on Laws of Exponents, any nonzero
base raised to the zero is equal to 1.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Identify whether the given expression is a polynomial or not a

polynomial. If it is a polynomial, state the number of variables
and its degree.
x −3
2
Answer: Rewrite the expression first
x −3 x 3 1 3
= − = x−
2 2 2 2 2
It is a polynomial with two terms. The first term has one
variable, x and its degree is 1. The second term is a constant
and its degree is 0. The degree of the binomial is 1.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Identify whether the given expression is a polynomial or not a

polynomial. If it is a polynomial, state the number of variables
and its degree.
4x
y
Answer: Rewrite the expression first
4x
= 4x y −1
y

Since the exponent of y is not a whole number, the expression

is not considered a polynomial.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Give an example of the following:

1. A monomial with no variable
2. A monomial with three variables
3. A trinomial with a single variable of which degree is 2
4. A trinomial with two variables of which degree is 1
5. A monomial with two variables of which degree is 5
6. A monomial with four variables of which degree is 5
7. A binomial with a single variable of which degree is 1
8. A binomial with a single variable of which degree is 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Write P if the expression is a polynomial. If not, NP.

2x 6. y −2 NP
1. P
3 7. 0.05x P
1 2x
2. NP 8. NP
2x y +1
3. 5x −1 − 2x + 3 NP 3
4. y 0.5 NP
9. 2x + NP
y
3
5. x 2 − y NP 10. 4x 2 − 2x + 1 P

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Law of Exponent I.

Multiplying powers of the same base

a m a n = a m+n
Examples:
1. 32 × 27 = 32 × 33 = 35
2. (3x)(x 4 ) = 3 · x · x 4 = 3x 1+4 = 3x 5

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Law of Exponent II.

Power of a Power
(a m )n = a mn
Examples:
1. (x 2 )3 = x 2·3 = x 6
2. (23 )3 = 29 = 512

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Law of Exponent III.

Power of a Product
(ab)n = a n b n
Examples:
1. (2x)4 = 24 x 4 = 16x 4
2. (3y 2 )3 = 33 (y 2 )3 = 27y 6

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Law of Exponent IV.

Power of a Quotient
³ a ´n an
=
b bn
Examples:
µ ¶3
2 23 8
1. = 3= 3
x x x
µ 2 ¶2
xy (x y 2 )2 x 2 y 4
2. = =
5 52 25

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Law of Exponent V.

Dividing Powers of the same Base

an
m
= a n−m
a
Examples:
x3
1.
2
= x 3−2 = x
x
b4 1
2.
6
= b 4−6 = b −2 = 2
b b
3 3
xy x y y
3.
2 2
= 2 · 2 = x 1−2 · y 3−2 = x −1 y =
x y x y x

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1. (3x 2 )(6x)= 18x 3

2. bb 2 b 3 = b 6
3. (3ab)3 = 27a 3 b 3
µ ¶4
2 16
4. = 4
x x
4
3x x4
5. = 3 · = 3x
x3 x3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1. (3x 2 )(6x)= 18x 3

2. bb 2 b 3 = b 6
3. (3ab)3 = 27a 3 b 3
µ ¶4
2 16
4. = 4
x x
4
3x x4
5. = 3 · = 3x
x3 x3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1. (4m 2 n)(−3mn 3 )= −12m 3 n 4

2. −2x(−5x y)(3y 3 )= 30x 2 y 4
3. (3bc 2 )3 = 27b 3 c 6
¶3
2x y 2 8x 3 y 6
µ
4. =
z z3
−18x 2 y 3
5. − = 18x
x3 y 3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1. (4m 2 n)(−3mn 3 )= −12m 3 n 4

2. −2x(−5x y)(3y 3 )= 30x 2 y 4
3. (3bc 2 )3 = 27b 3 c 6
¶3
2x y 2 8x 3 y 6
µ
4. =
z z3
−18x 2 y 3 18
5. − =
x3 y 3 x

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1. −3a(2a 2 b 4 )(−4ab 5 )= 24a 4 b 9

2. 7x(3x 2 y)3 = 7x(27x 6 y 3 ) = 189x 7 y 3
µ 3 2 ¶2
3x y 9x 6 y 4
3. =
4z 2 16z 4
µ ¶3 µ ¶3
6x 3 27
4.
3 4
= 2 4
=
8x y 4x y 64x 6 y 12
16a 3 b 4 c 2 8a 2 b 3
5. − = −
18abc 5 9c 3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1. −3a(2a 2 b 4 )(−4ab 5 )= 24a 4 b 9

2. 7x(3x 2 y)3 = 7x(27x 6 y 3 ) = 189x 7 y 3
µ 3 2 ¶2
3x y 9x 6 y 4
3. =
4z 2 16z 4
µ ¶3 µ ¶3
6x 3 27
4.
3 4
= 2 4
=
8x y 4x y 64x 6 y 12
16a 3 b 4 c 2 8a 2 b 3
5. − = −
18abc 5 9c 3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1. 6m 3 (−3m 2 )= −18m 5
2. 4b(3b 2 )3 = 4b(27b 6 ) = 108b 7
3. −7a 2 b(−3ab)= 21a 3 b 2
¶2 µ 2 ¶2
24x 3 y 5 16x 4
µ
4x
4. = =
18x y 6 3y 9y 2
175a 4 b 8 c 3 7a 3 b 2
5. =
200ab 6 c 9 8c 6

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1. 6m 3 (−3m 2 )= −18m 5
2. 4b(3b 2 )3 = 4b(27b 6 ) = 108b 7
3. −7a 2 b(−3ab)= 21a 3 b 2
¶2 µ 2 ¶2
24x 3 y 5 16x 4
µ
4x
4. = =
18x y 6 3y 9y 2
175a 4 b 8 c 3 7a 3 b 2
5. =
200ab 6 c 9 8c 6

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1. a · a3 · a5= a9
2. (2a 2 b)(4ab 2 )= 8a 3 b 3
3. (6x 4 y 6 )3 = 216x 12 y 18
22y 6 z 8
4. = 11y 5 z 15
2y z −7
¶5
3m 2 n 7
µ
5. = (3mn 7 )5 = 243m 5 n 35
m

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1. a · a3 · a5= a9
2. (2a 2 b)(4ab 2 )= 8a 3 b 3
3. (6x 4 y 6 )3 = 216x 12 y 18
22y 6 z 8
4. = 11y 5 z 15
2y z −7
¶5
3m 2 n 7
µ
5. = (3mn 7 )5 = 243m 5 n 35
m

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1
1. 5−3 =
125
µ ¶−4
1
2. = 81
3
µ ¶−3
5 8
3. =
2 125
1
4. (−2)−5 = −
32
µ ¶−4
3 256
5. − =
4 81

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1
1. 5−3 =
125
µ ¶−4
1
2. = 81
3
µ ¶−3
5 8
3. =
2 125
1
4. (−2)−5 = −
32
µ ¶−4
3 256
5. − =
4 81

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1. 1000 = 1
2. 3b 0 = 3(1) = 3
3. x −5 x 7 = x 2
b2 b5
4. =
ab −3 a
³ x ´−2 x −2 32 18
5. 2x = 2x · −2 = 2x · 2 =
3 3 x x

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1. 1000 = 1
2. 3b 0 = 3(1) = 3
3. x −5 x 7 = x 2
b2 b5
4. =
ab −3 a
³ x ´−2 x −2 32 18
5. 2x = 2x · −2 = 2x · 2 =
3 3 x x

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1. (2x 2 )0 = 1
x −3 1
2.
2
= 5
2x 2x
µ −2 ¶ µ 5 ¶
x x x3
3. = 2
y y y
µ 2 ¶−2 ³
5x y ´2 y2
4. = =
y 5x 2 25x 4
5. (3x)−1 (12x 3 )= 4x 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1. (2x 2 )0 = 1
x −3 1
2.
2
= 5
2x 2x
µ −2 ¶ µ 5 ¶
x x x3
3. = 2
y y y
µ 2 ¶−2 ³
5x y ´2 y2
4. = =
y 5x 2 25x 4
5. (3x)−1 (12x 3 )= 4x 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1. (2y)0 = 1
5
2. 5x 2 y −1 (x −2 )=
y
5x a 2 b −5 5bx a 2
µ ¶
5a
3.
−2 7
= · 7 7= 6 6
ab x a b x b x
¶−1 µ 2 2 ¶ 2 2 2
6x y 5y 6x y
µ
3x
4.
2
= · = 2x y 4
5y 5 3x 5
18
5. (6x)(−3x 4 )(−x −6 )=
x

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Perform the indicated operations.

1. (2y)0 = 1
5
2. 5x 2 y −1 (x −2 )=
y
5x a 2 b −5 5bx a 2
µ ¶
5a
3.
−2 7
= · 7 7= 6 6
ab x a b x b x
¶−1 µ 2 2 ¶ 2 2 2
6x y 5y 6x y
µ
3x
4.
2
= · = 2x y 4
5y 5 3x 5
18
5. (6x)(−3x 4 )(−x −6 )=
x

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Review

Like Terms
Like terms are those that contain the same set of distinct
variable factors and each of which corresponding exponents
are also respectively equal.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Examples

1. 2x and x are like terms.

2. 2x and 2y are unlike terms.
3. 7x and 7x 2 are unlike terms.
4. x 2 y and x y 2 are unlike terms.
5. 3mn 2 and 3n 2 m are like terms.
x
6. 3x and are like terms.
3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Simplify a 2 + b + a 2 + b 2 + b .

Solution:
a2 + b + a2 + b2 + b = a2 + a2 + b2 + b + b
= 2a 2 + b 2 + 2b

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Simplify (2x)2 + 4y − x 2 − y .

Solution:
(2x)2 + 4y − x 2 − y = 22 x 2 + 4y − x 2 − y
= 4x 2 + 4y − x 2 − y
= 4x 2 − x 2 + 4y − y
= 3x 2 + 3y

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Simplify −(mn)2 + 4n + 2mn 2 + 2m 2 n 2 .

Solution:
− (mn)2 + 4n + 2mn 2 + 2m 2 n 2
= −m 2 n 2 + 4n + 2mn 2 + 2m 2 n 2
= 2m 2 n 2 − m 2 n 2 + 2mn 2 + 4n
= m 2 n 2 + 2mn 2 + 4n

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Simplify (−x y)2 (−x y 2 ).

Solution:
(−x y)2 (−x y 2 ) = (−x)2 (y)2 (−x)(y 2 )
= x 2 · y 2 · (−x) · y 2
= x 2 · (−x) · y 2 · y 2
= −x 3 y 4

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Simplify (x y 2 )3 (x 2 y)2 + (x 3 y 4 )(x 2 y 2 )2 .

Solution:
(x y 2 )3 (x 2 y)2 + (x 3 y 4 )(x 2 y 2 )2
= x 3 (y 2 )3 (x 2 )2 y 2 + x 3 y 4 (x 2 )2 (y 2 )2
= x3 y 6x4 y 2 + x3 y 4x4 y 4
= x3x4 y 6 y 2 + x3x4 y 4 y 4
= x 3+4 y 6+2 + x 3+4 y 4+4
= x7 y 8 + x7 y 8
= 2x 7 y 8

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Simplify the following expressions:

1. 7x 2 + 3x − x 2 = 6x 2 + 3x
2. (4x 3 )(x 2 )(4x)= 16x 6
3. (8x 2 y)(x 4 y 3 )2 = 8x 10 y 7
4. (−4x 2 y 2 )(−4x y)2 = −64x 4 y 4
5. (−4x 3 y)(x 2 y 2 )(y)= −4x 5 y 4
6. 7x 6 y 4 + (x 3 y 2 )2 = 8x 6 y 4
7. (−x 2 y)(x y 2 )(x 2 y 2 ) + (x 3 y 2 )(−x 2 y 3 )= −2x 5 y 5
8. (2x y 2 )(−2x 2 y 2 ) + (x y 3 )(x 2 y)= −3x 3 y 4
9. (4x y 7 )(2x 4 y) − (5x 3 y 3 )(−8x 2 y 5 )= 48x 5 y 8
10. (3x 2 )(3y 2 ) + 3x 2 y − (3x y)2 − 3x y 2 = 3x 2 y − 3x y 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Perform the indicated operation:

− (2a − 5b + c) = − 2a + 5b − c
− [4a − (2a + 3)] = − [4a − 2a − 3] = − [2a − 3] = − 2a + 3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Perform the indicated operation:

2(a − 3b) − 5(b − 2a) + 3(−a − 3b)

= 2a − 6b − 5b + 10a − 3a − 9b
= 2a + 10a − 3a − 6b − 5b − 9b
= 9a − 20b

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Perform the indicated operation:

3y(2y 2 ) = 6y 3
−42x 4 y 2 7x 2
= 4
−6x 2 y 6 y

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:
Perform the indicated operation/s:
1. −3(−5a) = 15a
2. 3a + 8a = 11a
3. 6(2a − h) − 3(a − 4h) + 2(4h − 3a) = 3a + 14h
4. a + [b + (a − b)] = 2a
5. −(a − 2) − [2a − (a − 3)] = −2a − 1
6. a(a 2 − a 3 )= a 3 − a 4
7. 2x 2 (3 − x 4 )= 6x 2 − 2x 6
x 1
8.
4
= 3
x x
9. −4a(1 − 2ab) = −4a + 8a 2 b
3
10. (−16 + 8x − 32x 2 ) = −12 + 6x − 24x 2
4
Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra
Example

Perform the indicated operation/s:

(2x − 3y)(x 2 − x y)
= 2x(x 2 ) + 2x(−x y) + (−3y)(x 2 ) + (−3y)(−x y)
= 2x 3 − 2x 2 y − 3x 2 y + 3x y 2
= 2x 3 − 5x 2 y + 3x y 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Perform the indicated operation/s:

(x + 5)2
= (x + 5)(x + 5)
= x 2 + 5x + 5x + 25
= x 2 + 10x + 25

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Perform the indicated operation/s:

1. (x − 5)(2x + 7) = 2x 2 − 3x − 35
2. (x − 3)(7 − x) = −x 2 + 10x − 21
3. (x + y)(x − y) = x 2 − y 2
4. (2h − 3k)(2h − 4k) = 4h 2 − 14hk + 12k 2
5. (a y − 2z)(2a y + 3z) = 2a 2 y 2 − a y z − 6z 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Perform the indicated operation/s:

(x 2 + 3x 3 − x − 2)(2x + 3)

3x 3 + x 2 − x − 2
2x + 3
6x 4 + 2x 3 − 2x 2 − 4x
9x 3 + 3x 2 − 3x − 6
6x 4 + 11x 3 + x 2 − 7x − 6
The product is 6x 4 + 11x 3 + x 2 − 7x − 6.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Multiply x 2 − y 2 + 2x y by y 2 + x 2 − 2x y .

x 2 + 2x y − y 2
x 2 − 2x y + y 2
x 4 + 2x 3 y − x 2 y 2
− 2x 3 y − 4x 2 y 2 + 2x y 3
x 2 y 2 + 2x y 3 − y 4
x4 − 4x 2 y 2 + 4x y 3 − y 4
The product is x 4 − 4x 2 y 2 + 4x y 3 − y 4 .

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Perform the multiplication:

1. (y − 2)(y 2 + 2y + 4) = y 3 − 8
2. (x − 3)(x 2 + 2x − 5) = x 3 − x 2 − 11x + 15
3. (2 + x)(3 − 4x − x 2 ) = −x 3 − 6x 2 − 5x + 6
4. (3x 3 − 2x 2 + 5x − 7)(2x − 1)
= 6x 4 − 7x 3 + 12x 2 − 19x + 7
5. (y 3 + y + 2y 2 − 1)(y 2 − 2y + 3)
= y 5 + 3y 2 + 5y − 3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Perform the indicated operation:

2x + 8
2
1
= (2x + 8)
2
2x 8
= +
2 2
= x +4

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Divide x 2 + 3x − 40 by x − 5.

2x + 3y + x 2 x + 8)
¢
x − 5 x 2 + 3x − 40)
x − 5 x 2 − 5x−40)
x − 5 0 + 8x − 40))
x − 5x ) + 8x − 40)
x − 5x + 8x + y 2 0)
The final answer is x + 8.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Divide x 2 + 2x + 3 by x − 2.

2x + 3y + x 2 x + 4)
¢
x − 2 x 2 + 2x + 3)
x − 5 x 2 − 2x+3)
x − 5 0 + 4x + 3))
x − 5x ) + 4x − 8)
x − 5x + 8x+ 11)
The final answer is x + 4 with a remainder of 11 or
11
x +4+ .
x −2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

Divide 4x 3 − 8x 2 − 9x + 7 by 2x − 3.

2x 2 − x − 6
¢
2x − 3 4x 3 − 8x 2 − 9x + 7
4x 3 − 6x 2
− 2x 2 − 9x
− 2x 2 + 3x
−12x + 7
−12x + 18
−11
The final answer is 2x 2 − x − 6 with a remainder of −11 or
11
2x 2 − x − 6 − .
2x − 3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Perform: (x 3 + x 2 − 1) ÷ (x − 1).
x 2 + 2x + 2
x3 + x2
¢
x −1 −1
− x3 + x2
2x 2
− 2x 2 + 2x
2x − 1
− 2x + 2
1
1
The answer is x 2 + 2x + 2 +
x −1

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Perform: (x 2 + 15x + 36) ÷ (x + 12).

x +3
2
¢
x + 12 x + 15x + 36
− x 2 − 12x
3x + 36
− 3x − 36
0
The answer is x + 3.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Perform: (3x 2 − 7) ÷ (x − 5). 3x + 15

3x 2
¢
x −5 −7
− 3x 2 + 15x
15x − 7
− 15x + 75
68
68
The answer is 3x + 15 + .
x −5

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Perform: (x 4 − 4x 3 + 3x 2 − 4x + 12) ÷ (x − 3).

x3 − x2 −4
x 4 − 4x 3 + 3x 2 − 4x + 12
¢
x −3
− x 4 + 3x 3
− x 3 + 3x 2
x 3 − 3x 2
− 4x + 12
4x − 12
0
The answer is x 3 − x 2 − 4.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Review

(x + 4)(x + 4) = (x)(x) + (x)(4) + (4)(x) + (4)(4)

= x 2 + 4x + 4x + 16
= x 2 + 8x + 16

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Review

(2x + y)(2x − y)
= (2x)(2x) + (2x)(−y) + (y)(2x) + (y)(−y)
= 4x 2 − 2x y + 2x y − y 2
= 4x 2 − y 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Formula

Special Product: Difference of Two Squares

If we have (a + b)(a − b), then the product is a 2 − b 2 .

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Examples

1. (x + y)(x − y) = (x)2 − (y)2 = x 2 − y 2

2. (2a + b)(2a − b) = (2a)2 − (b)2 = 4a 2 − b 2
3. (5y − 8)(5y + 8) = (5y)2 − (8)2 = 25y 2 − 64
µ ¶µ ¶
1 1
4. a − 3b a + 3b
2 2

1 2
µ ¶
= a − (3b)2
2
1
= a 2 − 9b 2
4

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Examples (continued)

5. (5x + y)(5x − y) = (5x)2 − (y)2 = 25x 2 − y 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Find the product of the following:

1. (7x + 2y)(7x − 2y) = 49x 2 − 4y 2
2. (a 2 + x y)(a 2 − x y) = a 4 − x 2 y 2
3. (4x − 10)(4x + 10) = 16x 2 − 100
µ ¶µ ¶
2 1 2 1 4 1
4. x− b x + b = x2 − b2
3 5 3 5 9 25
3 3 2 6
5. (x + 8y )(x − 8y ) = x − 64y

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Review

Which expression gives the product 81x 2 − 25?

A. (9x − 5)(9x − 5)
B. (9x + 5)(9x − 5)
C. (9x + 5)(9x + 5)
Correct Answer: B.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Recall

(2x + y)(2x + y)
= (2x)(2x) + (2x)(y) + (y)(2x) + (y)(y)
= 4x 2 + 2x y + 2x y + y 2
= 4x 2 + 4x y + y 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Recall

(6a − 2b)(6a − 2b)

= (6a)(6a) + (6a)(−2b) + (−2b)(6a)
+ (−2b)(−2b)
= 36a 2 − 12ab − 12ab + 4b 2
= 36a 2 − 24ab + 4b 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Recall

(a + b)(a + b)
= (a)(a) + (a)(b) + (b)(a) + (b)(b)
= a 2 + ab + ab + b 2
= a 2 + 2ab + b 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Observe a Pattern

(2x + y)(2x + y) = (2x + y)2 = 4x 2 + 4x y + y 2

(6a − 2b)(6a − 2b) = (6a − 2b)2

= 36a 2 − 24ab + 4b 2

(a + b)(a + b) = (a + b)2 = a 2 + 2ab + b 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Formula

Special Product: Perfect Square Trinomial

If we have (a ± b)2 , then the product is a 2 ± 2ab + b 2 .

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Special Products(So far)

1. Product of the sum and difference of the same two terms

-> Difference of Two Squares
2. Square of a Binomial -> Perfect Square Trinomial

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Examples

1. (x + y)(x + y)

= (x + y)2
= (x)2 + 2(x)(y) + (y)2
= x 2 + 2x y + y 2

2. (2x − 7y)(2x − 7y)

= (2x − 7y)2
= (2x)2 + 2(2x)(−7y) + (7y)2
= 4x 2 − 28x y + 49y 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

3. (8x + 5y)(8x + 5y)

= (8x + 5y)2
= (8x)2 + 2(8x)(5y) + (5y)2
= 64x 2 + 80x y + 25y 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Find the product of the following:

1. (7x + 2y)(7x + 2y) = 49x 2 + 28x y + 4y 2
2. (a 2 + x y)(a 2 + x y) = a 4 + 2a 2 x y + x 2 y 2
3. (4y − 10)(4y − 10) = 16y 2 − 80y + 100
µ ¶µ ¶
2 1 2 1 4 4 1
4. x− b x − b = x 2 − bx + b 2
3 5 3 5 9 15 25
3 3 2 3 6
5. (x + 8y )(x + 8y ) = x + 16x y + 64y

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Formula

Square of A Trinomial If we have (a + b + c)2 , then the product

is a 2 + b 2 + c 2 + 2ab + 2ac + 2bc .

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

(x + 3y + 2)(x + 3y + 2)
x 2 + 3x y + 2x
+ 3x y + 9y 2 + 6y
+ 2x + 6y + 4
2 2
x + 6x y + 4x + 9y +12y+4

= (x)2 + (3y)2 + (2)2 + 2(x)(3y) + 2(x)(2)

+ 2(3y)(2)
= x 2 + 9y 2 + 4 + 6x y + 4x + 12y

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

(2x − 5y − 1)(2x − 5y − 1)

= (2x)2 + (−5y)2 + (−1)2 + 2(2x)(−5y)

+ 2(2x)(−1) + 2(−5y)(−1)
= 4x 2 + 25y 2 + 1 − 20x y − 4x + 10y

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

1. (7x + 2y − 5)2 = 49x 2 + 4y 2 + 25 + 28x y − 70x − 20y

2. (a 2 + x y + 9)2 = a 4 + x 2 y 2 + 81 + 2a 2 x y + 18a 2 + 18x y
3. (4y − 3z + 10)2 = 16y 2 + 9z 2 + 100 − 24y z + 80y − 60z
µ ¶2
2 1 1 4 1 1 2 2 1
4. x+ y+ = x2 + y 2 + + x y + x + y
3 6 2 9 36 4 9 3 6

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

5. (x + 8y 3 + 2z)2 = x 2 + 64y 6 + 4z 2 + 16x y 3 + 4xz + 32y 3 z

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Formula

Cube of a Binomial
If we have (a ± b)3 , then the product is a 3 ± 3a 2 b + 3ab 2 ± b 3 .

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

(x + 2y)3

= (x)3 + 3(x)2 (2y) + 3(x)(2y)2 + (2y)3

= x 3 + 6x 2 y + 12x y 2 + 8y 3

(2x − 5y)3

= (2x)3 + 3(2x)2 (−5y) + 3(2x)(−5y)2 + (−5y)3

= 8x 3 − 60x 2 y + 150x y 2 − 125y 3

(x + 7)3
= (x)3 + 3(x)2 (7) + 3(x)(7)2 + (7)3
= x 3 + 21x 2 + 147x + 343

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

1. (7x + 2y)3 = 343x 3 + 294x 2 y + 84x y 2 + 8y 3

2. (a 2 + 9)3 = a 6 + 27a 4 + 243a 2 + 729
3. (4y − 3z)3 = 64y 3 − 144y 2 z + 108y z 2 − 27z 3
µ ¶3
2 8 4
4. x − b = x 3 − x 2 b + 2xb 2 − b 3
3 27 3
3 3
5. (x − 8y ) = x − 24x 2 y 3 + 192x y 6 − 512y 9
3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Terminology about Factoring

In any reference to factors, two factors are considered

essentially the same if one is merely the negative of the other.

An integer is said to be prime if it has no integer as a factor

except itself or 1.

Example: 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, etc., are prime numbers.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Terminology about Factoring (contd.)

In our discussion of factoring, any literal expression involved,

or any factor which is mentioned, will be an integral rational
polynomial. Such an expression will be called prime if it has no
factor of similar type except itself or 1. No simple rule can be
stated for determining whether or not an expression is prime.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Terminology about Factoring (contd.)

To factor a polynomial will mean to express it as a product of

positive integral powers of distinct prime factors.

Example:

4x 4 − 4b 2 x 2 = 4x 2 (x 2 − b 2 ) = 4x 2 (x − b)(x + b)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Examples:

Factor.
1. ax + a y + az = a(x + y + z)
2. 3k 2 − 33k = 3k(k − 11)
3. 2y 3 − 18y 5 = 2y 3 (1 − 9y 2 )
= 2y 3 (1 + 3y)(1 − 3y)
4. 6w 4 − 10w 3 + 2w = 2w(3w 3 − 5w 2 + 1)
5. 5h 3 k − 20h 2 k 2 + 100hk = 5hk(h 2 − 4hk + 20)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Factor.
1. 8a + 10a 2 = 2a(4 + 5a)
2. 16p 4 + 4p 6 = 4p 4 (4 + p 2 )
3. 15n 3 + 12n = 3n(5n 2 + 4)
4. 32a 6 + 8ab − 80b 2 = 8(4a 6 + ab − 10b 2 )
5. 20a 12 b 2 + 6a 8 b − 20a 9 b 3
= 2a 8 b(1 − a 4 b + 3 − 10ab 2 )
6. 21m 3 n 9 + 27m 4 n 2 + 12m 3 n
= 3m 3 n(7n 8 + 9mn + 4)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Recall

Note that in a perfect square trinomial, we notice that:

1. two terms are perfect squares, and
2. the third term is plus (or minus) twice the product of the
square roots of the terms.

Formula
a 2 + 2ab + b 2 = (a + b)2
a 2 − 2ab + b 2 = (a − b)2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Examples: Factor the following

1. x 2 + 10x + 25 = (x)2 + 2(x)(5) + (5)2 = (x + 5)2

2. x 2 + 8x + 16 = (x)2 + 2(x)(4) + (4)2 = (x + 4)2
3. x 2 − 6x + 9 = (x)2 + 2(x)(−3) + (−3)2 = (x − 3)2
4. 4x 2 + 12x + 9 = (2x)2 + 2(2x)(3) + (3)2 = (2x + 3)2
5. 4x 2 − 20x + 25 = (2x)2 + 2(2x)(−5) + (−5)2 = (2x − 5)2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Factor.
1. 3n 3 + 30n + 75 = 3(n + 5)2
2. r 2 + 6r + 9 = (r + 3)2
3. 25n 2 − 30n + 9 = (5n − 3)2
4. 3k 2 − 24k + 48 = 3(k − 4)2
5. 100p 2 − 40p + 4 = 4(5p − 1)2
6. 2x 2 − 16x + 32 = 2(x − 4)2
7. 125x 2 − 200x + 80 = 5(5x − 4)2
8. 16x 2 − 40x + 25 = (4x − 5)2
9. 9k 2 + 6k + 1 = (3k + 1)2
10. 4x 2 − 8x + 4 = 4(x − 1)2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Formula

Factored Form of Difference of Two Squares

a 2 − b 2 = (a + b)(a − b)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Examples

1. y 4 − 9 = (y 2 )2 − (3)2 = (y 2 + 3)(y 2 − 3)
2. 100 − x 2 = (10)2 − (x)2 = (10 + x)(10 − x)
3. 25x 2 − 16 = (5x)2 − (4)2 = (5x + 4)(5x − 4)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Factor the following:

1. 1 − u 2 = (1 + u)(1 − u)
2. 4m 2 − h 2 = (2m + h)(2m − h)
3. 2x 6 − 72 = 2(x 6 − 36) = 2(x 3 + 6)(x 3 − 6)
4. h 2 k 2 − 121 = (hk + 11)(hk − 11)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Formula

Factored Form of Sum and Difference of Two Cubes

a 3 + b 3 = (a + b)(a 2 − ab + b 2 )
a 3 − b 3 = (a − b)(a 2 + ab + b 2 )

Example: Factor x 3 + 8.

Answer: (x)3 + (2)3 = (x + 2)(x 2 − 2x + 4)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

More Examples

Factor.
1. 1 − 64y 3 = (1)3 − (4y)3 = (1 − 4y)(1 + 4y + 16y 2 )
2. 125x 3 + 27 = (5x)3 + (3)3 = (5x + 3)(25x 2 − 15x + 9)
3. 216x 3 y 3 − 1 = (6x y)3 − (1)3 = (6x y − 1)(36x 2 y 2 + 6x y + 1)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Factor the following:

1. 125c 3 + 8 = (5c + 2)(25c 2 − 10c + 4)
2. 5 + 135u 9 = 5(1 + 27u 9 ) = 5(1 + 3u 3 )(1 − 3u 3 + 9u 6 )
3. 8x 6 y 12 + 27 = (2x 3 y 4 + 3)(4x 6 y 8 − 6x 3 y 4 + 9)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise (misc.)

Factor the following:

1. 2y 4 − 8u 2 = 2(y 2 + 4u)(y 2 − 4u)
2. 8y 3 − 125= (2y − 5)(4y 2 − 10y + 25)
3. 9b 2 − 6bx + x 2 = (3b − x)2
4. bx − 3x 3 = x(b − 3x 2 )

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Introduction

Certain trinomials of the form g x 2 + hx + k can be factored

using a method of trial and error to obtain a factored form
(x + a)(x + b) where

g x 2 + hx + k = (x + a)(x + b)

Example: Factor x 2 − 2x − 8.
We wish to obtain a and b such that
x 2 + (a + b)x + ab = x 2 − 2x − 8. by trial and error, a = −4 and
b = 2. This is correct because (x − 4)(x + 2) = x 2 − 2x − 8.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example: Factor 15x 2 + 2x − 8.

We wish to find a , b , c , and d such that

(ax + b)(cx + d ) = ac x 2 + (ad + bc)x + bd = 15x 2 + 2x − 8.
First trial: Since ac = 15, choose a = 15 and c = 1; Since
bd = −8, choose b = 2 and d = −4. This selection is wrong
because (15x + 2)(x − 4) = 15x 2 − 58x − 8.
Second trial: Choose a = 3, c = 5, b = −2, and d = 4.

(3x − 2)(5x + 4) = 15x 2 + 2x − 8

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise: Factor the following:

1. x 2 + 8x + 15 = (x + 3)(x + 5)
2. x 2 + 10x + 21 = (x + 7)(x + 3)
3. 12 − 7y + y 2 = (4 − y)(3 − y)
4. t 2 − 4t − 21 = (t − 7)(t + 3)
5. 18 + 3x − x 2 = (6 − x)(3 + x)
6. 4 − 3y − y 2 = (4 + y)(1 − y)
7. 2x 2 + 7x y + 3y 2 = (2x + y)(x + 3y)
8. 2x 2 + 3x y − 5y 2 = (2x + 5y)(x − y)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise: Factor the following:

9. 3u 2 + 7u − 6 = (3u − 2)(u + 3)
10. 10x 2 + 11x + 3 = (5x + 3)(2x + 1)
11. 3a 2 − 10a + 7 = (3a − 7)(a − 1)
12. −27x 2 + 3x + 2 = (9x + 2)(1 − 3x)
13. 5a 2 + 14ab + 9b 2 = (5a + 9b)(a + b)
14. 3x 2 + 5x y + 2y 2 = (3x + 2y)(x + y)
15. 45x 2 − 8x y − 4y 2 = (9x + 2y)(5x − 2y)
16. 8x 4 − 10x 3 + 3x 2 = x 2 (2x − 1)(4x − 3)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise: Factor the following:

17. 3y 2 + 2y 2 − 5y = y(3y + 5)(y − 1)

18. 3x 6 + x 3 − 10 = (3x 3 − 5)(x 3 + 2)
19. 8 + 2y 2 − 15y 4 = (2 + 3y 2 )(4 − 5y 2 )
20. 100a 2 − x 4 = (10a − x 2 )(10a + x 2 )
21. x 4 − 16y 4 = (x 2 + 4y 2 )(x + 2y)(x − 2y)
22. 4x 2 − 7x y + 3y 2 = (x − y)(4x − 3y)
23. 8x 3 − 8x y 2 = 8x(x − y)(x + y)
24. 9x 4 + 12x 2 y + 4y 2 = (3x 2 + 2y)2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise: Factor the following:

25. 64a 2 − 48ac µ+ 9c 2 = (8a

¶µ
− 3c)2
¶µ ¶
1 1 1 1
26. − 16y 4 = + 4y 2 + 2y + 4y 2
81 9 3 3
27. 6x − 1 − 9x 2 = −(3z − 1)2
28. 4y 2h − z 2m = (2y k − z m )(2y k + z m )
29. −9ρ 2 + 30ρv − 25v 2 = −(3ρ − 5v)2
30. 3a 4 + 4a 2 y 2 − 15y 4 = (3a 2 − 5y 2 )(a 2 + 3y 2 )

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Introduction

Sometimes, after terms are grouped, a complicated expression

may be factored easily by using the factoring techniques we
learned previously.
Example: 2c(a − b) + d (a − b) = (a − b)(2c + d )

Example: bx + b y + 2hx + 2h y = (bx + b y) + (2hx + 2h y) =

b(x + y) + 2h(x + y) = (x + y)(b + 2h)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Examples

Factor 3x(2a − b) + 4y(b − 2a).

= 3x(2a − b) − 4y(−b + 2a)

= 3x(2a − b) − 4y(2a − b)
= (2a − b)(3x − 4y)

Factor xz − kx + kw − w z .
= (xz − w z) − (kx − kw)
= z(x − w) − k(x − w)
= (x − w)(z − k)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Examples

Factor 6 − 3x 2 − 8x + 4x 3 .
= (6 − 8x) − (3x 2 − 4x 3 )
= 2(3 − 4x) − x 2 (3 − 4x)
= (3 − 4x)(2 − x 2 )

Factor a 2 − c 2 + b 2 − d 2 − 2ab − 2cd .

= (a 2 − 2ab + b 2 ) − (c 2 + 2cd + d 2 )
= (a − b)2 − (c + d )2
= [(a − b) + (c + d )][(a − b) − (c + d )]
= (a − b + c + d )(a − b − c − d )

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercises

1. 7(x + 2y) − 5(x + 2y) = 2(x + 2y)

2. c(x + y) + d (x + y) = (x + y)(c + d )
3. 2h(m − 2) − 3k(m − 2) = (m − 2)(2h − 3k)
4. 3h(w − z) − (w − z) = (w − z)(3h − 1)
5. 3a(w − 2k) + 2bw − 4bk = (w − 2k)(3a + 2b)
6. 3ac + 3bc + ad + bd = (a + b)(3c + d )
7. cr − cs + 3d r − 3d s = (c + 3d )(r − s)
8. 2c x + c y − 2d x − d y = (c − d )(2x + y)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercises

9. 4hx − 4bh − 8cx + 8bc = 4(h − 2c)(x − b)

10. (x 3 − 2x 2 ) − (x − 2) = (x − 2)(x − 1)(x + 1)
11. x 3 + 2x 2 + x + 2 = (x + 2)(x 2 + 1)
12. x 3 − 3x 2 + x − 3 = (x − 3)(x 2 + 1)
13. a 3 − 3a 2 − 3 + a = (a 2 + 1)(a − 3)
14. 3x 3 − 2x 2 + 6x − 4 = (x 2 + 2)(3x − 2)
15. 2(r − s) − x(s − r ) = (2 + x)(r − s)
16. x 2 − (s + 3)2 = (x − s − 3)(x + x + 3)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercises

17. (2z + w)2 − y 2 = (2z + w − y)(2z + w + y)

18. (c − 3d )2 − (2x + y)2 = (c − 3d − 2x − y)(c − 3d + 2x + y)
19. z 2 + 2z + 1 − 9x 2 = (z + 1 − 3x)(z + 1 + 3x)
20. y 2 + 2y z + z 2 − 4x 2 = (y + z − 2x)(y + z + 2x)
21. 4a 2 − 9z 2 − 6z − 1 = (2a − 3z − 1)(2a + 3z + 1)
22. 9x 2 − y 2 + 2y z − z 2 = (3x + y − z)(3x − y + z)
23. 16a 2 − 1 − 9x 2 + 6x = (4a + 3x − 1)(4a − 3x + 1)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercises

24. bx 4 − b y 4 + cx 4 − c y 4 = (x 2 + y 2 )(x − y)(x + y)(b + c)

25. z 4 − w 2 + w − z 2 = (z 2 − w)(z 2 + w − 1)
26. r 2 +6r t +9t 2 − a 2 −2ab −b 2 = (r +3t + a +b)(r +3t − a −b)
27. c 2 + 4c + 4 − 9d 2 − 6d h − h 2 = (c + 2 + 3d + h)(c + 2 − 3d − h)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercises

28. 9x 2 − 6x y + y 2 − 25a 2 + 10ab − b 2 =

(3x − y − 5a + b)(3x − y + 5a − b)
29. b 2 − 9x 2 + 2ab + a 2 = (a + b − 3x)(a + b + 3x)
30. 4a 2 + 9b 2 − 4x 2 − y 2 − 4x y − 12ab =
(2a − 3b + 2x + y)(2a − 3b − 2x − y)
31. 16x 4 − 81y 4 + 4x 2 − 9y 2 = (4x 2 + 9y 2 + 1)(2x − 3y)(2x + 3y)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Introduction

In basic mathematics, prime factorization is the process of

expressing an integer in factored form such that all the factors
are prime.

In the context of polynomials, a polynomial is said to be

factored completely if all the factors are prime.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example: Factor 3x 2 − 24x + 45

To factor a polynomial completely, always check first if the

terms have a common monomial factor. In the example notice
that 3 is the common monomial factor. So

3x 2 − 24x + 45 = 3(x 2 − 8x + 15)

Next, factor the other factors using the appropriate techniques.

Notice that x 2 − 8x + 15 is factorable using trial and error.

3(x 2 − 8x + 15) = 3(x − 3)(x − 5)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Examples

1. 2u 8 − 18
2u 8 − 18 = 2(u 8 − 9)
= 2(u 4 + 3)(u 4 − 3)

2. 6x 4 + 22x 3 − 8x 2
6x 4 + 22x 3 − 8x 2 = 2x 2 (3x 2 + 11x − 4)
= 2x 2 (3x − 1)(x + 4)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Examples

3. 5x 3 − 5
5x 3 − 5 = 5(x 3 − 1)
= 5(x − 1)(x 2 + x + 1)
4. 2x 4 + 2x 2 − 3x 3 y − 6x 2

= 2x(x 3 + x − 3x 2 y − 3y)
= 2x[(x 3 + x) − (3x 2 y + 3y)]
= 2x[x(x 2 + 1) − 3y(x 2 + 1)]
= 2x(x 2 + 1)(x − 3y)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Factor completely.
1. 2a 2 x − 32x y 2 = 2x(a + 4y)(a − 4y)
2. x 4 − 4x 2 + 3 = (x 2 − 3)(x + 1)(x − 1)
3. 9ab 3 − 18ab 2 + 9ab = 9ab(b − 1)2
4. R 4 − 3P R 3 + 2P R 2 − 6P 2 R = R(R 2 + 2P )(R − 3P )

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Concept Review

Numerical Expression
These are mathematical phrases that involve operation/s
between numbers.
Example: 5 + 2(3)

Open Expression
These are mathematical phrases that involves operation/s
between variables and numbers.
Example: x + 2(x + 1)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Concept Review (continued)

Rational Number
This is a quotient of two integers a and b where b 6= 0.
Remember that a rational number with a denominator of 0 is
undefined.
3
Example:
4

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Rational Number v.s. Rational Expression

Rational Number Examples

5 9
1. 2.
2 17

Rational Expression Examples

x x +1
1. 2.
x +1 2x(5 + x)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

Rational Expression
A rational expression is a quotient of two polynomials which
can be written in the form P /Q where P and Q are
polynomials and Q 6= 0.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Determine if the given is a rational number or a rational

expression.
3 x(4 + x)
1. Rational Expression 4. − Rational
x +1 1−x
9+5 Expression
2. − Rational Number
1−6
−28 17
3. Rational Number 5. Rational Number
7 23

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Important

Just like rational numbers, rational expressions are said to be

undefined when the denominator is equal to zero.
Today, let us learn how to identify what are the values of the
variable that makes a rational expression undefined.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example:

Determine the value/s of the variable that make/s the rational

expression undefined.
x +5
3x + 2
Step 1: Equate the denominator to zero.

3x + 2 = 0

Step 2: Solve the equation.

2
x =−
3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example: (continued)

Determine the value/s of the variable that make/s the rational

expression undefined.
x +5
3x + 2
Step 3: The solution/s of the equation make the rational
expression undefined.
2
x 6= −
3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example:

Determine the value/s of the variable that make/s the rational

expression undefined.
2x − 5
x 2 − 5x + 4

Step 1: x 2 − 5x + 4 = 0
Step 2: (x − 1)(x − 4) = 0
Step 2: x = 1 and x = 4
Step 3: x 6= 1 and x 6= 4

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example:

Determine the value/s of the variable that make/s the rational

expression undefined.
17x
x2 − 9
Step 1: x2 − 9 = 0
Step 2: (x + 3)(x − 3) = 0
Step 2: x = −3 and x = 3
Step 3: x 6= −3 and x 6= 3

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example:

Determine the value/s of the variable that make/s the rational

expression undefined.
−12x
x 2 − 22x + 121

Step 1: x 2 − 22x + 121 = 0

Step 2: (x − 11)2 = 0
Step 2: x = 11
Step 3: x 6= 11

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example:

Determine the value/s of the variable that make/s the rational

expression undefined.
−12
x 2 + 36
Step 1: x 2 + 36 = 0
Step 2: x 2 + 36 = 0 has no solution.
Step 3: There are no x values that will make the rational
expression undefined.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Determine the value/s of the variable that make/s the rational

expression undefined.
x −2
2x + 1
Step 1: 2x + 1 = 0
1
Step 2: x = −
2
1
Step 3: x 6= −
2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Determine the value/s of the variable that make/s the rational

expression undefined.
3x
x 2 + 6x + 8

Step 1: x 2 + 6x + 8 = 0
Step 2: (x + 4)(x + 2) = 0
Step 2: x = −4 and x = −2
Step 3: x 6= −4 and x 6= −2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Determine the value/s of the variable that make/s the rational

expression undefined.
5x − 1
x2 + 5
Step 1: x 2 + 5 = 0
Step 2: x 2 + 5 = 0 has no solution.
Step 3: There are no x values that will make the rational
expression undefined.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Determine the value/s of the variable that make/s the rational

expression undefined.
5x + 2
x2 + x − 6
Step 1: x2 + x − 6 = 0
Step 2: (x + 3)(x − 2) = 0
Step 2: x = −3 and x = 2
Step 3: x 6= −3 and x 6= 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Reduction of a Fraction to Lowest Terms

Whenever we make reference to factoring in a fraction, it will

be assumed that the numerator and denominator are integral
rational polynomials with integral coefficients. We shall say
that a fraction of this nature is in lowest terms if the
numerator and denominator have no common polynomial
factor except ±1.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Reduction of a Fraction to Lowest Terms

Step 1: Factor the numerator and denominator.

Step 2: Divide both numerator and denominator by all

common factors.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

75
Reduce to lowest terms:
125
3×5×5
Step 1:
5×5×5
3 × 5
× 5

Step 2:
5 × 5
× 5

3
Step 2:
5

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

9x 2 − 16y 2
Reduce to lowest terms:
3x 2 + 2x y − 8y 2
(3x + 4y)(3x − 4y)
Step 1:
(3x − 4y)(x + 2y)
(3x + 4y)
(3x
− 4y)

Step 2:
(3x
−4y)(x
 + 2y)
3x + 4y
Step 2:
x + 2y

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

x2 − 9
Reduce to lowest terms:
12 + 2x − 2x 2
(x + 3)(x − 3) (x + 3)(x − 3)
Step 1: =−
2(3 − x)(2 + x) 2(x − 3)(2 + x)
(x + 3)
(x − 3)
 

Step 2: −
2(x − 3)(2 + x)
 
x +3
Step 2: −
2(x + 2)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

−a − x
Reduce to lowest terms:
c
−(a + x)
Step 1:
c
a+x
Step 2: −
c

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Reduce to lowest terms:

39a 2 b 3
1. 3 2
=
65a b 5ab
a y(u − v) a
2. =
c y(u − v) c
ax + 2a y a
3. =
2cx + 4c y 2c
au 2 − au y a
4. =
cu 2 − cux c
4a 2 − b 2 2a − b
5. =
4a + 2b 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Reduce to lowest terms:

xa 2 − bx x
6. =
y a2 − b y y
9a 2 − z 2 3a + z
7. =
3ax − xz x
3 3
c y − cx c
8. 3 4
=
xy −x x
x 2 + 3x − 10 x + 5
9. =
x 2 − 5x + 6 x − 3
18 − 3y − y 2 3 − y
10. =
12 − 4y − y 2 2 − y

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Reduce to lowest terms:

a 2 + 6ab + 9b 2 a + 3b
11. =
a 2 − 9b 2 a − 3b
25a 2 − 30ab + 9b 2 5a − 3b
12. =
10a 2 b − 6a 2 b 2 2a 2 b
2
12 − 5y − 2y 4+ y
13. 2
=
2y − 5y + 3 1 − y
8 + x 3 4 − 2x + x 2
14. =
4 − y2 2−x
27x 3 − 8y 3 9x 2 + 6x y + 4y 2
15. =
9x 2 − 4y 2 3x + 2y

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Reduce to lowest terms:

−b(−c) c
16. =−
−4ab 4a
2a + 2b 2
17. =−
−3a − 3b 3
3(2a − b) 3
18. =−
x(b − 2a) x
2
(u − 2v) 2v − u
19. =
4v − 2u 2
w3 − v3 w2 + vw + v2
20. =−
c v − cw c

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Reduce to lowest terms:

8x 3 − 125v 3 25v 2 + 10v x + 4x 2
21. =−
625v 4 − 16x 4 (5v + 2x)(25v 2 + 4x 2 )
2 2
25a − x + 2x − 1 5a + x − 1
22. = −
3b 2 x − 3b 2 − 15ab 2 3b 2
2 2
2a + 2u + a + 2au + u a +u +2
23. 3 2 2 3
= 2
a + 3a u + 3au + u a + 2au + u 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise:

Reduce to lowest terms:

u 4 − 5b 2 u 2 + 4b 4
24. 3 = u +b
u − 4b 2 u + 4b 3 − bu 2
6 − 3u + 2u 2 − u 3 3 + u2
25. =
8 − 12u + 6u 2 − u 3 (2 − u)2
8u 6 + v 6 4u 4 − 2u 2 v 2 + v 4
26. =
2u 4 − u 2 v 2 − v 4 u2 − v 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Multiplication

To multiply one fraction by another, multiply the numerators

for a new numerator, and the denominators for a new
denominator.
3 6 3 · 6 18
Example: · = = .
5 7 5 · 7 35
a c ac
In general, · = .
b d bd

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Division

To divide one fraction by another, invert the divisor and

multiply the dividend by this inverted divisor.
4 3 4 7 4 · 7 28
Example: ÷ = · = = .
5 7 5 3 5 · 3 15
a
a c a d ad
In general, ÷ = bc = · = .
b d b c bc
d

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Multiplication Involving Fractions and Whole
Numbers

To multiply a fraction by a number, multiply the numerator by

the number.
5 7 · 5 35
Example: 7 · = =
6 6 6
³ a ´ c a a · c ac
In general: c = · = = .
b 1 b 1·b b

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Division Involving Fractions and Whole Numbers

To divide a fraction by a number, multiply the denominator by

the number.
5 5
Example: ÷4 =
3 12
a a c a 1 a
In general: ÷ c = ÷ = · = .
b b 1 b c bc

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

5 4 5 4 6 4 · 6 24
4÷ = ÷ = · = =
6 1 6 1 5 1·5 5

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Mul’n and Div’n of Rational Expressions

Before carrying out multiplication or division of fractions,

factor the numerators and denominators, and divide out all
common factors from the final numerator and denominator.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

2x 2 + 7x − 15 2x 2 − 19x + 42
·
2x 2 − 3x − 14 8x − 12

(2x
−3)(x + 5)  (2x
−7)(x − 6)
 

= ·
(2x
− 7)(x + 2) 4(2x
− 3)
 


(x + 5)(x − 6)
=
4(x + 2)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

x y2 − y3
x3 + x2 y x y 2 − y 3 x 2 − x y − 2y 2
= ·
x 2 − 2x y + y 2 x 3 + x 2 y x 2 − 2x y + y 2
x 2 − x y − 2y 2
y 2
(x
−y)
 (x − 2y)(x
 + y)

= ·
x 2
(x
+y)

(x − y)
2

y 2 (x − 2y)
=
x 2 (x − y)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

2x − 4 2x − 4 x − 2
2
÷ (x − 2) = 2 ÷
x −5 x −5 1
2x − 4 1
= 2 ·
x −5 x −2
2
(x−2)
 1
= 2 · 
x −5  x −2
2
= 2
x −5

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

3 c c
1. · =
5 6d 10d
8 4
2. ÷ 6=
5 15
3 5x
3. x ÷ =
5 3
2a − 2x c + 3d
4. · =1
2c + 6d a − x

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

hx − h y cw − bw hw
5. · =−
ab − ac 3x − 3y 3a
y +2 (y − 3)(y + 2)
6. (y 2 − 9) · 2
=
y + 3y y
2x − 2y 4x 2 − y 2 2(2x − y)
7. · =
6x + 3y (x − y)2 3(x − y)
x 2 − 25y 2
8. 2x − 6 = (x − 5y)(x + 3)
x 2 + 5x y 2x
2
x −9

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

a3 + b3
(2a + 3b)(a 2 − ab + b 2 )
9. 2a − 3b =
2a + 2b 2
2
4a − 9b 2

3x − bx 3c − bc w x(4 − x)
10. ÷ =
5h − hx 4w − w x ch(5 − x)
3x − 1 4x + 5
11. 2
=
9x − 1 3x + 1
4x + 5

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

x 2 − 16 (x − 1)(x + 4)
12. 2
=
x − 4x x
x −1
25 − 9x 2 5 + 3x
13. ÷ (5x − 3x 2 )=
x +3 x(x + 3)
2a 2 − 2ab + 2b 2 (a + b)(2a + 5b)
14. (a 3 + b 3 ) ÷ =
2a + 5b 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

6x + 4y x 3 − a 3 y 3 x 2 + 4x y + 4y 2
15. · · =
2bx − 2ab y ax + 2a y 9x 2 − 4y 2
(x + 2y)(x 2 + ax y + a 2 y 2 )
ab(3x − 2y)
bx − ab + cx − ac 1
16. 2 2
÷ (d x − ad )=
b −c d (b − c)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

x 2 y − x 3 x 3 + 8y 3
µ ¶
·
a 3 − 27b 3 x 2 − 4y 2 y −x
17. 5 4 3 2
=
x − 2x y + 4x y x(a 2 + 3ab + 9b 2 )
ax + 6b y − 2a y − 3bx

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Answers to Exercise

3 c c
1. · =
5 6d 10d
8 4
2. ÷ 6=
5 15
3 5x
3. x ÷ =
5 3
2a − 2x c + 3d
4. · =1
2c + 6d a − x

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Answers to Exercise

hx − h y cw − bw hw
5. · =−
ab − ac 3x − 3y 3a
y +2 (y − 3)(y + 2)
6. (y 2 − 9) · 2
=
y + 3y y
2x − 2y 4x 2 − y 2 2(2x − y)
7. · =
6x + 3y (x − y)2 3(x − y)
x 2 − 25y 2
8. 2x − 6 = (x − 5y)(x + 3)
x 2 + 5x y 2x
2
x −9

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Answers to Exercise

a3 + b3
(2a + 3b)(a 2 − ab + b 2 )
9. 2a − 3b =
2a + 2b 2
2
4a − 9b 2

3x − bx 3c − bc w x(4 − x)
10. ÷ =
5h − hx 4w − w x ch(5 − x)
3x − 1 4x + 5
11. 2
=
9x − 1 3x + 1
4x + 5

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Answers to Exercise

x 2 − 16 (x − 1)(x + 4)
12. 2
=
x − 4x x
x −1
25 − 9x 2 5 + 3x
13. ÷ (5x − 3x 2 )=
x +3 x(x + 3)
2a 2 − 2ab + 2b 2 (a + b)(2a + 5b)
14. (a 3 + b 3 ) ÷ =
2a + 5b 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Answers to Exercise

6x + 4y x 3 − a 3 y 3 x 2 + 4x y + 4y 2
15. · · =
2bx − 2ab y ax + 2a y 9x 2 − 4y 2
(x + 2y)(x 2 + ax y + a 2 y 2 )
ab(3x − 2y)
bx − ab + cx − ac 1
16. 2 2
÷ (d x − ad )=
b −c d (b − c)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Answers to Exercise

x 2 y − x 3 x 3 + 8y 3
µ ¶
·
a 3 − 27b 3 x 2 − 4y 2 y −x
17. 5 4 3 2
=
x − 2x y + 4x y x(a 2 + 3ab + 9b 2 )
ax + 6b y − 2a y − 3bx

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

The degree of an integral rational term in certain letters is

defined to be the sum of the exponents with which these
letters appear in the term. The degree of an integral rational
polynomial is defined as the degree of its term of highest
degree.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

x 4 y z 2 is of the 4th degree in x , 1st degree in y , and 7t h

degree in x , y , and z .

(x 3 + x 2 − 7) is of the 3rd degree in x .

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

The LCM of two or more integral rational polynomials is

defined as the polynomial of the lowest degree in all the literal
numbers, with smallest integral coefficients, which has each
given polynomial as a factor. Two results for an LCM which
differ only in sign will be considered essentially identical
because usually the sign of an LCM is of no importance. To
find the LCM, first factor the polynomials.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Examples

Since 6 = 2 · 3 and 20 = 2 · 2 · 5, the LCM of of 6 and 20 is

2 · 2 · 3 · 5 or 60.

The LCM of 3a 2 x 3 and 20x y 4 is 60a 2 x 3 y 4 .

The LCM of 2(3 − x)(3 + x), 4(x − 3)(x − 1), and 3(x − 3)2 is
4 · 3(x − 3)2 (x + 3)(x − 1).
We did not consider (3 − x) and (x − 3) as distinct factors
because (3 − x) = −(x − 3).

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Addition of Fractions

The Lowest Common Denominator (LCD) of two or

more fractions is the LCM of their denominators. We shall
deal with the notion of an LCM only where it is an LCD. To
find a sum of fractions, we change them, if necessary, to
fractions having the LCD.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Addition of Fractions

1. Find the LCD.

2. For each fraction, divide the LCD by the denominator and
then multiply both numerator and denominator by the
resulting quotient, to express the fraction as an equal one
having the LCD.
3. Combine the new numerators, with each placed in
parentheses preceded by the sign of its fraction, and
divide by the LCD.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

3 2 7 2 3 2 7
2+ − + = + − +
5 15 10 1 5 15 10
2 · 30 3 · 6 2 · 2 7·3
= + − +
1 · 30 5 · 6 15 · 2 10 · 3
(2 · 30) + (3 · 6) − (2 · 2) + (7 · 3)
=
30
95
=
30
19
=
6

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

4x 3x
−
x2 − 9 x2 + x − 6
4x 3x
= −
(x + 3)(x − 3) (x + 3)(x − 2)

The LCD is (x − 3)(x + 3)(x − 2).

4x(x − 2) − 3x(x − 3) 4x 2 − 8x − 3x 2 + 9x
=
(x − 3)(x + 3)(x − 2) (x − 3)(x + 3)(x − 2)
x2 + x
=
(x − 3)(x + 3)(x − 2)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

2x 6y 2x 4x 6y
− 4x − 2 = − − 2
3y 5x y 3y 1 5x y

The LCD is 15x 2 y .

2x · 5x 2 4x · 15x 2 y 6y · 3
= 2
− 2
− 2
3y · 5x 1 · 15x y 5x y · 3
10x 3 − 60x 3 y − 18y
=
15x 2 y

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

5 7 5 7
+ = +
9c − 6d 4d − 6c 3(3c − 2d ) 2(2d − 3c)
5 7
= +
3(3c − 2d ) −2(−2d + 3c)
5 7
= −
3(3c − 2d ) 2(3c − 2d )
(5 · 2) − (7 · 3)
=
6(3c − 2d )
11
=−
6(3c − 2d )

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Write the missing numerator or denominator to create

equality:
3 6
1. =
5 10
3 6
2. =
17 34
2 2a 2 b 2
3. =
a2b a4b3
7h 28x 3 y 2
4. =
9x 4 36x 7 y 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Write the missing numerator or denominator to create

equality:
2y 2y(3y − 1)
5. =
y − 4 (y − 4)(3y − 1)
2 2(2a + 3)
6. = 2
a − 2 2a − a − 6

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Combine into a single fraction.

3 7 9 1
7. + − =
4 4 4 4
c d 7 c −d −7
8. − − =
8 8 8 8
5 6 − 3a 9a − 8
9. − =
3 2 6
5 3 1
10. − =−
8 4 8

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Combine into a single fraction.

h k 4h − 3k
11. − =
3 4 12
2 x − 2y 2 − 3x + 6y
12. − =
9 3 9
3a − b 20 − 3a + b
13. 4 − =
5 5
2x − 3 x − 7 262 − 13x
14. 3 − + =
10 18 90

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Combine into a single fraction.

2u + 3 3 − 4u 23u + 3
15. + 3u − =
4 12 6
b c 2b − 3c x 2
16. − =
3x 3 2x 6x 3
5 3 5r + 3h
17. + =
hk kr hkr
4 5y − 1 20b − 15a y + 3a
18. 2
− =
3a 5ab 15a 2 b

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Combine into a single fraction.

3a 2 − 5b
19. − +6
2bc c3
3ac − 4b + 10b 2 + 12bc 3
2
=
2bc 3
2 − x 4 − 3y 4y − 12x + 7x y
20. − =
3x 2 y 2x y 2 6x 2 y 2
3 2 4y − 12x + 7x y
21. − =
7x + 7y 5(x + y) 6x 2 y 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Combine into a single fraction.

a b a2 + b2
22. − = 2
a − b a + b a − b2
2x + 1 x + 2 8x 2 + 6x + 4
23. − =
2x + 3 2 − 3x (2x + 3)(3x − 2)

2x − 3 5 2x 2 + 7x + 10
24. − − =−
6x + 6 3x 6x(x + 1)

3x 4 3x 2 − 3x y + 8
25. + 2 =
2x + 2y x − y 2 2(x 2 − y 2 )

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Combine into a single fraction.

2a − n 3a − 4n 3a + n
26. + =
2a − 2n 6n − 6a 6(a − n)

5x 4x 2 + 2x − 1 x 2 − 17x + 1
27. − 2 =
x + 4 x + x − 12 (x + 4)(x − 3)
1 n +6 2n + 14
28. − 2 =
3n − 3 n + 3n − 4 12 − 9n − 3n 2
3x − 5x 2 x −3 9 + 9x − 12x 2
29. − =
4x 2 + 12x + 9 4x + 6 2(2x + 3)2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Combine into a single fraction.

2c − 5 4
30. 2
+ 2
2c − 50 3c − 13c − 10
6c 2 − 3c + 30
=
2(c 2 − 25)(3c + 2)
2x 5
31. −
8x 3 − 27 4x 2 − 12x + 9
45 + 36x + 16x 2
=−
(8x 3 − 27)(2x − 3)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Combine into a single fraction.

3x 2 5x 2 − 3 11x 4 − 22x 2 + 6
32. + =
x 4 − 4 2x 4 + x 2 − 6 (x 4 − 4)(2x 2 − 3)
3 − 7x 4−x
33. 2
+3+x − 2
8x − 18 2x − 9x + 9
8x 4 − 93x 2 + 14x + 129
=
2(4x 2 − 9)(x − 3)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise

Combine into a single fraction.

3 x + 3y x − 2y
34. + − 2
x 2 − x y − 6y 2 3
x + 8y 3 2x − 4x y + 8y 2
8x 2 − 12x y + 6y 2 − 12y 3 + 3x 2 y + 4x y 2 − x 3
=
2(x 3 + 8y 3 )(x − 3y)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise (with answers)

Write the missing numerator or denominator to create

equality:
3 6
1. =
5 10
3 6
2. =
17 34
2 2a 2 b 2
3. =
a2b a4b3
7h 28x 3 y 2
4. =
9x 4 36x 7 y 2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise (with answers)

Write the missing numerator or denominator to create

equality:
2y 2y(3y − 1)
5. =
y − 4 (y − 4)(3y − 1)
2 2(2a + 3)
6. = 2
a − 2 2a − a − 6

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise (with answers)

Combine into a single fraction.

3 7 9 1
7. + − =
4 4 4 4
c d 7 c −d −7
8. − − =
8 8 8 8
5 6 − 3a 9a − 8
9. − =
3 2 6
5 3 1
10. − =−
8 4 8

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise (with answers)

Combine into a single fraction.

h k 4h − 3k
11. − =
3 4 12
2 x − 2y 2 − 3x + 6y
12. − =
9 3 9
3a − b 20 − 3a + b
13. 4 − =
5 5
2x − 3 x − 7 262 − 13x
14. 3 − + =
10 18 90

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise (with answers)

Combine into a single fraction.

2u + 3 3 − 4u 23u + 3
15. + 3u − =
4 12 6
b c 2b − 3c x 2
16. − =
3x 3 2x 6x 3
5 3 5r + 3h
17. + =
hk kr hkr
4 5y − 1 20b − 15a y + 3a
18. 2
− =
3a 5ab 15a 2 b

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise (with answers)

Combine into a single fraction.

3a 2 − 5b
19. − +6
2bc c3
3ac − 4b + 10b 2 + 12bc 3
2
=
2bc 3
2 − x 4 − 3y 4y − 12x + 7x y
20. − =
3x 2 y 2x y 2 6x 2 y 2
3 2 1
21. − =
7x + 7y 5(x + y) 35(x + y)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise (with answers)

Combine into a single fraction.

a b a2 + b2
22. − = 2
a − b a + b a − b2
2x + 1 x + 2 8x 2 + 6x + 4
23. − =
2x + 3 2 − 3x (2x + 3)(3x − 2)

2x − 3 5 2x 2 + 7x + 10
24. − − =−
6x + 6 3x 6x(x + 1)

3x 4 3x 2 − 3x y + 8
25. + 2 =
2x + 2y x − y 2 2(x 2 − y 2 )

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise (with answers)

Combine into a single fraction.

2a − n 3a − 4n 3a + n
26. + =
2a − 2n 6n − 6a 6(a − n)

5x 4x 2 + 2x − 1 x 2 − 17x + 1
27. − 2 =
x + 4 x + x − 12 (x + 4)(x − 3)
1 n +6 2n + 14
28. − 2 =
3n − 3 n + 3n − 4 12 − 9n − 3n 2
3x − 5x 2 x −3 9 + 9x − 12x 2
29. − =
4x 2 + 12x + 9 4x + 6 2(2x + 3)2

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise (with answers)

Combine into a single fraction.

2c − 5 4
30. 2
+ 2
2c − 50 3c − 13c − 10
6c 2 − 3c + 30
=
2(c 2 − 25)(3c + 2)
2x 5
31. −
8x 3 − 27 4x 2 − 12x + 9
45 + 36x + 16x 2
=−
(8x 3 − 27)(2x − 3)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise (with answers)

Combine into a single fraction.

3x 2 5x 2 − 3 11x 4 − 22x 2 + 6
32. + =
x 4 − 4 2x 4 + x 2 − 6 (x 4 − 4)(2x 2 − 3)
3 − 7x 4−x
33. 2
+3+x − 2
8x − 18 2x − 9x + 9
8x 4 − 93x 2 + 14x + 129
=
2(4x 2 − 9)(x − 3)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Exercise (with answers)

Combine into a single fraction.

3 x + 3y x − 2y
34. + − 2
x 2 − x y − 6y 2 3
x + 8y 3 2x − 4x y + 8y 2
8x 2 − 12x y + 6y 2 − 12y 3 + 3x 2 y + 4x y 2 − x 3
=
2(x 3 + 8y 3 )(x − 3y)

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Definition

A rational equation is an equation containing at least one

rational expression.

Rational expressions typically contain a variable in the

denominator. For this reason, we will take care to ensure that
the denominator is not 0 by making note of restrictions and
checking our solutions.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Solution Steps

Step 1: Multiply both sides of the equation by the LCD to

eliminate the denominators.
Step 2: Remove grouping symbols and collect similar terms.
Step 3: Transpose terms involving the unknown in one side
and the constants on the other side.
Step 4: Combine similar terms.
Step 5: Divide both sides by the coefficient of the unknown.

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

5 1 1
Solve − = .
x 3 x
µ ¶ µ ¶
5 1 1
3x · − = 3x ·
x 3 x
5 1 1
3x · − 3x · = 3x ·
x 3 x
15 − x = 3
−x = 3 − 15
−x = −12
x = 12 SS: { 12 }

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

1 3
Solve 2 − = .
x(x + 1) x + 1
µ ¶ µ ¶
1 3
(x)(x + 1) · 2 − = (x)(x + 1) ·
x(x + 1) x +1
2(x)(x + 1) − 1 = 3x
2x 2 + 2x − 1 = 3x
2x 2 + 2x − 1 − 3x = 0
2x 2 − x − 1 = 0
(2x + 1)(x − 1) = 0 SS: { −1/2, 1 }

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

x 2 5
Solve + 2 = .
x + 2 x + 5x + 6 x + 3
x 2 5
+ =
x + 2 (x + 2)(x + 3) x + 3
x 2 5
(x + 2)(x + 3)· +(x + 2)(x + 3)· = (x + 2)(x + 3)·
x +2 (x + 2)(x + 3) x +3
x(x + 3) + 2 = 5(x + 2)
x 2 + 3x + 2 = 5x + 10
x 2 − 2x − 8 = 0
(x − 4)(x + 2) = 0 SS: { 4 }

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

x 4 36
Solve − = .
x − 4 x + 5 (x − 4)(x + 5)
x 4 36
(x − 4)(x + 5)· −(x − 4)(x + 5)· = (x − 4)(x + 5)·
x −4 x +5 (x − 4)(x + 5)
x(x + 5) − 4(x − 4) = 36
x 2 + 5x − 4x + 16 = 36
x 2 + x − 20 = 0
(x + 5)(x − 4) = 0
SS: ;

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Try this:

1 x 4x
Solve: + = 2
x + 1 x − 3 x − 2x − 3
Solution Set: ;

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example

x −5
Solve for x : z =
y
x −5
y ·z = y ·
y
yz = x −5
yz +5 = x
x = yz +5

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Example:

1 1 1
Solve for c := +
c a b
1 1 1
abc · = abc · + abc ·
c a b
ab = bc + ac
ab = c(a + b)
ab
c=
a +b

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra

Try this:

y +1
Solve for y : x =
y −1
x +1
Solution: y =
x −1

Clifford Jed A. de Leon Algebra