This is a question given to me to answer:How is dividing a polynomial by a binomial similar to or different from the long division you learned in elementary school? Can understanding how to do one kind of division help you with understanding the other kind?

Question

This is a question given to me to answer:How is dividing a polynomial by a binomial similar to or different from the long division you learned in elementary school? Can understanding how to do one kind of division help you with understanding the other kind?

This is my answer: Dividing a polynomial by a binomial is quite similar to the method of long division that is taught in elementary school; the technique is the same; the difference being that division of polynomials involves variables instead of just numbers. Therefore, Understanding the concept of long division is imperative in understanding division involving polynomials. However, in order to fully understand how to divide a polynomial, you have to be knowledgeable on how to multiply monomial terms with variables. Multiplying monomials terms with variables is the same process as when multiplying numbers in long division. You also have to know how to subtract terms, which is the exact process as in long division as well.

Does this sound right?

Answer 1

That sounds fine.

Answer 2

Yes, your answer accurately describes the similarities and differences between dividing a polynomial by a binomial and the long division method taught in elementary school. Dividing a polynomial by a binomial follows the same general steps as long division, but with the addition of variables. Understanding how to perform long division with numbers is fundamental to understanding polynomial division, as it involves the same concepts of multiplication and subtraction. Additionally, your mention of multiplying monomial terms with variables is correct, as this multiplication step is crucial in the process of dividing polynomials. Overall, your explanation is clear and correct.