AC Method
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AC method is a technique used in algebra to factor quadratic trinomials of the form , where ( a ), the coefficient of , is not equal to 1.The method works by multiplying ( a ) and ( c ) to find their product, then identifying two numbers that multiply to this product and add up to ( b ); these numbers are used to split the middle term.[1]
Steps
[edit]To divide a quadratic equation such as using the AC method, first multiply and . Here, is the coefficient of , and is the constant term.
For example, in the case of , , , so .
Then, two numbers must be found whose product is (here ) and whose sum is (here ). In this case, and work, because and .
Then the middle term has to be split using these two numbers. That is, will become . As a result, the equation will become .
Next, factor by grouping: from , we get .
Finally, take out the common factor and write the final form. Here, it is .[2]
References
[edit]- ^ "AC Method: Detailed Explanation and Examples - The Story of Mathematics - A History of Mathematical Thought from Ancient Times to the Modern Day". www.storyofmathematics.com. 2023-03-25. Retrieved 2025-03-23.
- ^ "ac Method of Factoring". people.richland.edu. Retrieved 2025-03-23.