For each polynomial function, use the remainder theorem to find ƒ(k).ƒ(x) = x^2 + 5x+6; k = -2
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Identify the polynomial function \( f(x) = x^2 + 5x + 6 \) and the value \( k = -2 \).
According to the Remainder Theorem, the remainder of the division of \( f(x) \) by \( x - k \) is \( f(k) \).
Substitute \( k = -2 \) into the polynomial function: \( f(-2) = (-2)^2 + 5(-2) + 6 \).
Calculate each term: \((-2)^2 = 4\), \(5(-2) = -10\), and the constant term is \(6\).
Add the results of the calculations: \(4 - 10 + 6\).
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Polynomial Functions
A polynomial function is a mathematical expression involving a sum of powers in one or more variables multiplied by coefficients. The general form of a polynomial in one variable is f(x) = a_n*x^n + a_(n-1)*x^(n-1) + ... + a_1*x + a_0, where n is a non-negative integer and a_n are constants. Understanding polynomial functions is essential for analyzing their behavior, roots, and values at specific points.
The Remainder Theorem states that when a polynomial f(x) is divided by (x - k), the remainder of this division is equal to f(k). This theorem provides a quick way to evaluate polynomial functions at specific values without performing long division. It is particularly useful for finding function values and understanding the relationship between polynomials and their roots.
Evaluating a function involves substituting a specific value into the function's expression to determine its output. For polynomial functions, this means replacing the variable x with a given number, such as k in this case. This process is fundamental in algebra, as it allows for the calculation of function values, which is crucial for graphing and analyzing the behavior of the polynomial.