Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
4. Polynomial Functions
Zeros of Polynomial Functions
Problem 37b
Textbook Question
For each polynomial function, one zero is given. Find all other zeros. See Examples 2 and 6. ƒ(x)=-x^4-5x^2-4; -i
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1
Identify the given zero of the polynomial function. For the polynomial function ƒ(x) = -x^4 - 5x^2 - 4, the given zero is -i.
Recognize that polynomial functions with real coefficients have complex zeros that occur in conjugate pairs. Since -i is a zero, its conjugate, i, must also be a zero.
Use synthetic division or polynomial division to divide the polynomial by (x - i)(x + i) = x^2 + 1, which is the factor corresponding to the zeros i and -i.
Simplify the polynomial function after division to find the quotient. This quotient is a new polynomial of lower degree (specifically, a quadratic polynomial).
Solve the quadratic polynomial obtained in the previous step using methods such as factoring, completing the square, or the quadratic formula to find the remaining zeros.
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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 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' is not zero. Understanding the structure of polynomial functions is essential for analyzing their zeros, which are the values of 'x' that make the function equal to zero.
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Zeros of a Polynomial
The zeros of a polynomial function are the values of 'x' for which the function evaluates to zero. These can be real or complex numbers, and they represent the points where the graph of the polynomial intersects the x-axis. Finding all zeros often involves factoring the polynomial or using the Rational Root Theorem, synthetic division, or numerical methods when necessary.
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Complex Conjugate Root Theorem
The Complex Conjugate Root Theorem states that if a polynomial has real coefficients and a complex number 'a + bi' (where 'i' is the imaginary unit) as a root, then its complex conjugate 'a - bi' must also be a root. This theorem is crucial when finding all zeros of a polynomial, as it allows us to identify additional roots when one complex root is known, ensuring that we account for all possible solutions.
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