SOLUTION: Hi, I am having a problem with two variables on a dividend when dividing polynomials. My exact problem is: 2x^3-9x^2y-12y^3+17xy^2 divided by 2x-3y I know the usual process a

Algebra ->  Polynomials-and-rational-expressions -> SOLUTION: Hi, I am having a problem with two variables on a dividend when dividing polynomials. My exact problem is: 2x^3-9x^2y-12y^3+17xy^2 divided by 2x-3y I know the usual process a      Log On


   

Question 321342: Hi, I am having a problem with two variables on a dividend when dividing polynomials. My exact problem is:
2x^3-9x^2y-12y^3+17xy^2 divided by 2x-3y
I know the usual process and I have gotten to the second equation involving getting a difference of -6x^2y but now I am stuck, because when I divide -6x^2y to the first term of the divisor, I have to multiply that quotient (which is -3xy) to the brought-down -12y^3, and as far as I remember I can't multiply it because -12y^3 has no x variable. Can you please help? Thanks.
Answer by scott8148(6628) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
arrange the terms in descending power hierarchy for one of the variables (x seems easiest)

(2x-3y) into (2x^3 - 9x^2 y + 17x y^2 - 12y^3)

___ 2x into 2x^3 gives x^2 ___ x^2(2x-3y) is (2x^3-3x^2 y)

___ 2x into (-6x^2 y) gives -3xy ___ -3xy(2x-3y) is (-6x^2 y + 9x y^2)

___ 2x into (8x y^2) gives 4y^2 ___ 4y^2(2x-3y) is (8x y^2 - 12y^3)

x^2 - 3xy + 4y^2