Expert: Bobby Soltani - 7/5/2009

Question
Problem (3^3-x^2+10x-4)/(x+3).
I don't understand the concept of how to solve this problem or any like it. Can you please explain.

Answer
Hi Michele,

Long division of a polynomial by a binomial is carried out in essentially the same manner as long division of two integers with no variables:

  1. Divide the highest degree term of the polynomial by the highest degree term of the binomial. Write the result above the division line.
  2. Multiply this result by the divisor, and subtract the resulting binomial from the polynomial.
  3. Divide the highest degree term of the remaining polynomial by the highest degree term of the binomial.
  4. Repeat this process until the remaining polynomial has lower degree than the binomial.

There are several example problems here:  http://www.purplemath.com/modules/polydiv3.htm

The answer I get is  x^2 - 4x + 22 - 70/(x+3)

Let me know if you have any questions.  Good luck!

Bobby