Basic algebra Definition and 52 Threads

I was under the impression that any polynomial could be factored by using the Factor Theorem and synthetic division, but then I got to thinking: What if a polynomial has factors in the form (bx-a), as opposed to (x-a)? I can't find them with the Factor Theorem, so what do I do? I imagine the...

How would I simplify this equation? (3a^3)^-3(9a^-1)^-2 When I put those carrots in that means the next number is an exponent. Is there any easier way to write exponents?