Mathematics

If a polynomial is exactly divisible by two linear factors, then those factors' roots must make the polynomial equal zero. This is the Factor Theorem in action: use $x=2$ and $x=-1$ to create two equations in your unknowns $a$ and $b$, then solve the system. You'll have two equations and two unknowns—a straightforward setup.

If a polynomial is exactly divisible by two linear factors, then those factors' roots must make the polynomial equal zero. This is the Factor Theorem in action: use $x=2$ and $x=-1$ to create two equations in your unknowns $a$ and $b$, then solve the system. You'll have two equations and two unknowns—a straightforward setup.