Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Fundamental Theorem of Algebra
The Fundamental Theorem of Algebra states that every non-constant polynomial function of degree n has exactly n roots in the complex number system, counting multiplicities. This means that for a polynomial like ƒ(x)=9x^6-7x^4+8x^2+x+6, there will be six roots, which can be real or complex.
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Descarte's Rule of Signs
Descarte's Rule of Signs provides a method to determine the number of positive and negative real roots of a polynomial by analyzing the sign changes in the coefficients. For positive roots, count the sign changes in ƒ(x), and for negative roots, evaluate ƒ(-x) and count the sign changes there. This helps in predicting the nature of the roots.
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Complex Conjugate Root Theorem
The Complex Conjugate Root Theorem states that if a polynomial has real coefficients, any nonreal complex roots must occur in conjugate pairs. This means if a polynomial has a complex root a + bi, then its conjugate a - bi is also a root. This theorem is essential for understanding the distribution of roots when analyzing polynomials.
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