# [MOVED] Long Division with polynomials

G

#### Guest

##### Guest
I'm not really sure about this question. To divide or find factors of polynomials, do I use "f(x) = d(x)q(x) + r(x)" to some how find the other factors? Or just play with the numbers? I asked a couple of my friends but we don't know how to start it. Thanks so much in advance for any help.

Here's the question:

One factor of x³ + 3x² - 16x + 12 is x-2. Find all factors.

#### galactus

##### Super Moderator
Staff member
Do you know how to long divide polynomials?.

Since we are told that x-2 is a factor:

Code:
      x^2+5x-6
------------------------------------
x-2|x^3+3x^2-16x+12
x^3-2x^2
---------------------------
5x^2-16x+12
5x^2-10x
-------------------------
-6x+12
-6x+12
----------------------
0
When you divide you get $$\displaystyle x^{2}+5x-6$$

Now, factor this quadratic and you'll have your other 2 factors?. See?

G

#### Guest

##### Guest
Ohhh! Thank you so so much, i understand it now. I was way, way off.. Thanks again!