Is it possible to factor polynomials using a graphing calculator?

Question

Recently my teacher hinted on a way to factor polynomials using a graphing calculator but said that she wouldn't tell us how until the year was over, and it's only the third day! So I was wondering if someone on here knew how it was done...let's see what you've got!

Also, a small lesson on the getKey function would be much appreciated.

Answer 1

you didn't state which Calculator you were using, but I am going to do it for the TI-89 (I tink it works for all the TI graphing calcs though)

if you do

factor(function,variable)

ex.

factor(x^2-9,x) = (x-3)*(x+3)

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this is all I can find on getKey

http://tibasicdev.wikidot.com/getkey  

Answer 2

ive heard of this and i found it in a science book.it was in a library. but i forgot about it.sorry