Long division

Definition

Long division is a method used to divide polynomials, similar to the long division process with numbers. It involves dividing the terms of the polynomial step-by-step to find the quotient and remainder.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Long division can be used to divide any polynomial by another polynomial of lower or equal degree.
2. The result of a long division operation between two polynomials is a quotient and possibly a non-zero remainder.
3. In each step of long division, you divide the leading term of the dividend by the leading term of the divisor.
4. When performing long division with polynomials, keep track of like terms to ensure accurate subtraction at each step.
5. The final answer in polynomial long division can often be expressed in the form: $Dividend = (Divisor \cdot Quotient) + Remainder$.

Review Questions

• What are the steps involved in performing long division on polynomials?
• How do you determine the quotient when dividing two polynomials?
• What does it mean if there is a non-zero remainder after performing long division on polynomials?

Related terms

Polynomial: A mathematical expression consisting of variables, coefficients, and exponents that are combined using addition, subtraction, and multiplication.

Quotient: The result obtained by dividing one quantity by another.

Remainder: The amount left over after division when one number or polynomial does not exactly divide another.