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Ch. 3 - Polynomial and Rational Functions
Chapter 4, Problem 95

Find all complex zeros of each polynomial function. Give exact values. List multiple zeros as necessary.* ƒ(x)=x^4+2x^3-3x^2+24x-180

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<insert step 1> Start by using the Rational Root Theorem to identify possible rational roots of the polynomial \( f(x) = x^4 + 2x^3 - 3x^2 + 24x - 180 \). The possible rational roots are the factors of the constant term (-180) divided by the factors of the leading coefficient (1).
<insert step 2> Test the possible rational roots using synthetic division or direct substitution to find any actual roots. If a root is found, it will divide the polynomial evenly, leaving no remainder.
<insert step 3> Once a root is found, use polynomial division to divide the original polynomial by \( x - \text{(found root)} \) to reduce the polynomial's degree.
<insert step 4> Repeat the process of finding roots for the reduced polynomial. If the polynomial is quadratic, use the quadratic formula \( x = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a} \) to find the remaining roots.
<insert step 5> After finding all roots, verify them by substituting back into the original polynomial to ensure they satisfy \( f(x) = 0 \).

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Complex Zeros

Complex zeros are solutions to polynomial equations that may include real and imaginary numbers. A complex zero can be expressed in the form a + bi, where a and b are real numbers, and i is the imaginary unit. Understanding complex zeros is essential for analyzing polynomial functions, especially when the polynomial has no real solutions.
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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, determined by the highest power of the variable, influences the number of zeros it can have. For example, a fourth-degree polynomial can have up to four complex zeros, including real zeros.
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Factoring and the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra

The Fundamental Theorem of Algebra states that every non-constant polynomial function has at least one complex root, and the total number of roots (counting multiplicities) equals the degree of the polynomial. Factoring the polynomial can help identify its zeros, as it breaks down the polynomial into simpler components, making it easier to solve for the roots.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question
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Textbook Question
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