Show that each polynomial function has a real zero as described in parts (a) and (b). In Exercises 31 and 32, also work part (c). ƒ(x)=3x^3-8x^2+x+2 Find the zero in part (b) to three decimal places.
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
Zeros of Polynomial Functions
Problem 37
Textbook Question
For each polynomial function, one zero is given. Find all other zeros.
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the given polynomial function: \(f(x) = -x^{4} - 5x^{2} - 4\) and the given zero: \(-i\).
Recall that for polynomials with real coefficients, complex zeros come in conjugate pairs. Since \(-i\) is a zero, its conjugate \(i\) is also a zero.
Use the fact that \(x = i\) and \(x = -i\) are zeros to form a quadratic factor: \((x - i)(x + i) = x^{2} + 1\).
Divide the original polynomial \(f(x)\) by the quadratic factor \(x^{2} + 1\) using polynomial division or synthetic division to find the other quadratic factor.
Set the resulting quadratic factor equal to zero and solve for \(x\) to find the remaining zeros of the polynomial.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Complex Conjugate Root Theorem
This theorem states that if a polynomial has real coefficients and a complex number a + bi is a root, then its conjugate a - bi is also a root. Since -i is given as a zero, its conjugate i must also be a zero of the polynomial.
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Factoring Polynomials Using Known Roots
Once a root is known, the polynomial can be divided by the corresponding factor (x - root) to reduce its degree. Repeated use of this process helps find all zeros by factoring the polynomial completely.
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Introduction to Factoring Polynomials
Polynomial Division and Synthetic Division
Polynomial division, including synthetic division, is a method to divide polynomials by linear factors. It simplifies the polynomial after factoring out known roots, making it easier to find remaining zeros.
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