Show that the real zeros of each polynomial function satisfy the given conditions. ƒ(x)=x4+x3-x2+3; no real zero less than -2
Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 18m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations1h 43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 5m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 22m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
4. Polynomial Functions
Understanding Polynomial Functions
Problem 63
Textbook Question
Show that the real zeros of each polynomial function satisfy the given conditions. ƒ(x)=x5-3x3+x+2; no real zero greater than 2
Verified step by step guidance1
First, understand the problem: we need to show that the real zeros of the polynomial function \(f(x) = x^5 - 3x^3 + x + 2\) have no real zero greater than 2. This means if \(r\) is a real root, then \(r \leq 2\).
Evaluate the polynomial at \(x = 2\) to check the sign of \(f(2)\). Substitute \(x = 2\) into the polynomial: \(f(2) = 2^5 - 3 \cdot 2^3 + 2 + 2\).
Analyze the behavior of \(f(x)\) for values greater than 2. Consider the leading term \(x^5\), which dominates for large \(x\). Since the leading coefficient is positive, \(f(x)\) tends to \(+\infty\) as \(x \to +\infty\).
Use the Intermediate Value Theorem: if \(f(2)\) is positive and \(f(x)\) tends to \(+\infty\) for \(x > 2\), then there is no root greater than 2 because the function does not cross the x-axis beyond 2.
Optionally, check \(f(3)\) or another value greater than 2 to confirm the function remains positive, reinforcing that no real zeros exist greater than 2.
Verified video answer for a similar problem:This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Video duration:
6mPlay a video:
Was this helpful?
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Real Zeros of Polynomial Functions
Real zeros of a polynomial are the values of x for which the polynomial equals zero. These zeros correspond to the x-intercepts of the graph. Understanding how to find and interpret real zeros is essential for analyzing the behavior of polynomial functions.
Recommended video:
Introduction to Polynomial Functions
Evaluating Polynomial Values to Bound Zeros
To show that no real zero exceeds a certain value, evaluate the polynomial at that value and analyze the sign of the result. If the polynomial is positive (or negative) at that point and the function’s behavior indicates no sign changes beyond it, this helps establish bounds on the zeros.
Recommended video:
Finding Zeros & Their Multiplicity
Intermediate Value Theorem
The Intermediate Value Theorem states that if a continuous function changes sign over an interval, it must have a zero within that interval. This theorem is useful for locating zeros and proving that no zeros exist beyond a certain point by checking sign consistency.
Recommended video:
Introduction to Hyperbolas
Watch next
Master Introduction to Polynomial Functions with a bite sized video explanation from Patrick
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Textbook Question
941
views
