Zero-Product Property

Learn and apply zero-product property using equations, examples, and interpretation.

Lesson 3 of 53 parts Practice Flashcards

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Zero Product

Objective: Explain and use zero product in an Algebra 1 problem.

If AB=0 for real numbers, then A=0 or B=0; this property applies to a product equal to zero. No, first rewrite the equation with zero on one side.

Worked examples

Try itExample 1.1: Solve (x−3)(x−5)=0. What is the larger root?Show answer

5. Set each factor equal to zero and compare the roots. The answer is 5.

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Objective: Explain and use zero product in an Algebra 1 problem.

If AB=0 for real numbers, then A=0 or B=0; this property applies to a product equal to zero. No, first rewrite the equation with zero on one side.

Worked examples

Try itExample 1.1: Solve (x−3)(x−5)=0. What is the larger root?Show answer

5. Set each factor equal to zero and compare the roots. The answer is 5.

Objective: Explain and use solving factored quadratics in an Algebra 1 problem.

Set each factor equal to zero, solve each resulting equation, then check the roots in the original quadratic. Either factor may be zero.

Worked examples

Try itExample 2.1: Solve (x−4)(x−8)=0. What is the larger root?Show answer

8. Set each factor equal to zero and compare the roots. The answer is 8.

Objective: Explain and use finding x-intercepts in an Algebra 1 problem.

Real roots of y=f(x) occur where y=0, so solutions to a quadratic equation can locate graph x-intercepts. Yes, if it never reaches y=0.

Worked examples

Try itExample 3.1: Solve (x−2)(x−11)=0. What is the larger root?Show answer

11. Set each factor equal to zero and compare the roots. The answer is 11.

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