Algebra Demystified 2nd Ed

133

chapter

6

Factoring and the

Distributive Property

Distributing multiplication over addition (and subtraction) and factoring (the

opposite of distributing) are extremely important properties in algebra. We use

the distributive property of multiplication over addition both to expand expres-

sions and to factor them (to write an expression as a product of two or more

numbers and/or algebraic expressions). After developing our factoring skills, we

will work with fractions having algebraic expressions in their numerators and/

or denominators. In later chapters, we will use our ability to factor expressions

when solving equations.

CHAPTER OBJECTIVES

In this chapter, you will

• Use the distributive property to expand expressions


• Combine like terms


• Use various techniques to factor expressions


• Use the FOIL method to expand expressions


• Use factoring techniques to simplify fractions


• Use factoring techniques to add fractions