Polynomial Long Division: (6x^2 - 5x + 9) / (2x - 1)
This article will guide you through the process of dividing the polynomial (6x^2 - 5x + 9) by (2x - 1) using polynomial long division.
Steps:
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Set up the division:
- Write the dividend (6x^2 - 5x + 9) inside the division symbol.
- Write the divisor (2x - 1) outside the division symbol.
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Divide the leading terms:
- Divide the leading term of the dividend (6x^2) by the leading term of the divisor (2x).
- This gives you 3x. Write this above the division symbol, aligning it with the x term.
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Multiply the quotient by the divisor:
- Multiply the quotient (3x) by the entire divisor (2x - 1).
- This gives you (6x^2 - 3x).
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Subtract:
- Subtract the product (6x^2 - 3x) from the dividend (6x^2 - 5x + 9).
- This gives you (-2x + 9).
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Bring down the next term:
- Bring down the next term of the dividend (+9).
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Repeat steps 2-5:
- Divide the new leading term (-2x) by the leading term of the divisor (2x).
- This gives you -1. Write this next to the 3x above the division symbol.
- Multiply the new quotient (-1) by the divisor (2x - 1). This gives you (-2x + 1).
- Subtract (-2x + 1) from (-2x + 9). This gives you 8.
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The remainder:
- 8 is the remainder, as it is a constant term and cannot be divided further by the divisor (2x - 1).
Result:
The division of (6x^2 - 5x + 9) by (2x - 1) results in:
(6x^2 - 5x + 9) / (2x - 1) = 3x - 1 + 8/(2x - 1)
Therefore, the quotient is 3x - 1 and the remainder is 8.
Conclusion:
Polynomial long division is a fundamental technique for dividing polynomials. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully divide any polynomial by another polynomial. It is a crucial tool in various mathematical applications, including simplifying expressions, solving equations, and understanding the behavior of functions.