The document discusses mathematical expressions and polynomials. It provides examples of algebraic expressions and operations with polynomials, such as factoring polynomials. Factoring polynomials makes it easier to calculate outputs, simplify rational expressions, and solve equations. One example factors the polynomial 2x3 - 5x2 + 2x and shows it is easier to evaluate the factored form for different values of x than the original polynomial. The key purposes of factoring polynomials are to simplify calculations and operations.