GED Math Practice Questions: Multiplying and Dividing Polynomials

On the GED Mathematical Reasoning test, you may need to multiply or divide polynomial expressions. You can solve these expressions using either a horizontal or vertical approach, as shown in the following practice questions.

Practice questions

1. Solve the following:

   

2. Solve the following:

   

Answers and explanations

1. 112x² – 94xy – 51y²

   To solve this equation, start by multiplying the first term in the first polynomial by the two terms in the second polynomial: 14x (8x + 3y) = 112x² + 42xy. Multiply the second term in the first polynomial by the two terms in the second polynomial:

   112x² + 42xy + 136xy + 51y² = 112x² – 51y² + 136xy

   Now, put it all together and simplify:

   112x² – 94xy – 51y²

2. a + 5

   To solve this problem, use long division:

   

   Change the signs to subtract:

   

   Carry down 5b – 10 to get:

   

   You can see that the next term will be +5:

   

   You have your answer. Change the signs to subtract and make sure you have no remainder: