Module 3 – Polynomial and Rational Functions
Module 3.3 – Dividing Polynomials
(see Text sections 3.2, 3.3, and 3.4)
Introduction
We’ve seen that factoring can help us understand the behaviour and
graphs of polynomial functions. One way to factor numbers is by trying
division by potential prime factors, and the same is true of
polynomials. In this section we study how to divide with polynomials
using a pattern very similar to the “long division” we use for numbers.
When the division of numbers does not give an exact integer result we
are led to consider fractions – or in other words rational numbers.
Similarly, when the result of dividing two polynomials does not give a
polynomial result, we call the result a rational function. Such
functions will be studied algebraically in this section, and
graphically in the next one.
What to Do
1. Use the following Study Notes and Discussion
to guide your reading
of sections 3.2, 3.3, and 3.4 of the text. Keep a pencil and paper at
hand, and be sure to check your understanding by following the
suggestions as you go.
2. Follow the instructions regarding Further Practice.
3. When you feel that you have met the learning
objectives for this section, go on to the next.