Question

What does it mean to be a factor of a polynomial

Answer 1

To be able to factor effectively we need positive prime factors; so we use the description polynomial to show an easier approach should numbers divide.

12 = (2) (2) (3)

We can compare that 2 as an integer is a prime factor, a prime factor is used as nothing else can divide into it other than 1 or itself.

Explanation:

Answer 2

A factor of polynomial P(x) is any polynomial which divides evenly into P(x). For example, x + 2 is a factor of the polynomial x2 – 4. The factorization of a polynomial is its representation as a product its factors. For example, the factorization of x2 – 4 is (x – 2)(x + 2).