2. Synthetic Division
A trick for dividing polynomials
Helps us solve for the roots of polynomials
Only works when we divide by 1st
degree
(linear) polynomials
)2()11183( 24
−÷+−− xxxx
Exponent can’t be larger than 1!
4. Your Turn
On your Synthetic Division Notes packet,
complete problems 1 – 5.
Decide if it’s possible to use synthetic division to
divide the two polynomials
1. Yes 2. Yes 3. No 4. No 5. No
6. Preparing for Synthetic
Division
Can only be used when the divisor is in the
form:
To divide, you will need the constant term of
your divisor: set your divisor equal to 0 and
solve!
x – c
7. Preparing for Synthetic
Division, cont.
Polynomials need to be written in expanded,
standard polynomial form.
For the polynomial to be expanded sequentially,
ALL terms must be listed
AKA: If you’re missing terms, they must be filled in
with “place holders.”
15. Step 4
2
Multiply “c” by the last value underneath the line.
Write their product just underneath the next
coefficient.
3 0 -8 -11 1
6
3
16. Step 5
2
Add together the numbers in that column and
write their sum underneath the line.
3 0 -8 -11 1
6
3 6
17. Step 6
2
Multiply “c” by the last value underneath the line.
Write their product just underneath the next
coefficient.
3 0 -8 -11 1
6 12
3 6
18. Step 7
2
Repeat steps 5 and 6 until a number appears in
the box underneath the last column.
3 0 -8 -11 1
6 12 8 -6
3 6 4 -3 -5
19. Step 8 – Naming the Quotient
2
In the last row are the coefficients of the quotient
in decreasing order. The quotient is one degree
less than the dividend.
3 0 -8 -11 1
6 12 8 -6
3 6 4 -3 -5
20. Step 8 – Naming the Quotient
3 6 4 -3 -5
The number in the box is the remainder.
=−÷+−− )2()11183( 24
xxxx
21. Your Turn
On your Synthetic Division Notes packet,
solve for the quotient of problems 11 – 14
using synthetic division
11.
12.
13.
14.