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 47
Textbook Question
In Exercises 47–48, find an nth-degree polynomial function with real coefficients satisfying the given conditions. Verify the real zeros and the given function value. n = 3; 2 and 2 - 3i are zeros; f(1) = -10
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insert step 1: Start by noting that the polynomial is of degree 3, and you are given two zeros: 2 and 2 - 3i. Since the coefficients are real, the complex conjugate of 2 - 3i, which is 2 + 3i, must also be a zero.
insert step 2: Write the polynomial in its factored form using the zeros: f(x) = a(x - 2)(x - (2 - 3i))(x - (2 + 3i)).
insert step 3: Simplify the factors involving complex numbers. Use the identity (x - (2 - 3i))(x - (2 + 3i)) = (x - 2)^2 + 9, which is derived from the difference of squares.
insert step 4: Substitute the simplified expression back into the polynomial: f(x) = a(x - 2)((x - 2)^2 + 9).
insert step 5: Use the condition f(1) = -10 to find the value of 'a'. Substitute x = 1 into the polynomial and solve for 'a'.
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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 degree of the polynomial is determined by the highest power of the variable. In this case, we are dealing with a third-degree polynomial, which can have up to three real or complex roots.
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Introduction to Polynomial Functions
Complex Conjugate Root Theorem
The Complex Conjugate Root Theorem states that if a polynomial has real coefficients, any non-real complex roots must occur in conjugate pairs. For example, if 2 - 3i is a root, then its conjugate, 2 + 3i, must also be a root. This theorem is essential for determining all roots of the polynomial when given a complex root.
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Evaluating Polynomial Functions
Evaluating a polynomial function at a specific value involves substituting that value into the polynomial expression and simplifying. In this problem, we need to ensure that the polynomial satisfies the condition f(1) = -10, meaning that when we substitute x = 1 into our polynomial, the result should equal -10. This step is crucial for verifying the correctness of the polynomial derived from the given roots.
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