Solving Polynomial Functions
Fundamental Theorem of Algebra
• Every polynomial equation with a degree
greater than zero will have at least one
complex root
Tricks…..
• If all the coefficients add to equal 0, then 1
works.
• If every other coefficient adds to equal the
sum of every other coefficient, then -1 works.
• Try factoring a cubic by grouping if possible.
• 2x5-4x4-2x-1
Steps to Follow
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Try tricks
P/Q it
Divide to find roots
At the cubic level (3rd degree) can you group?
At the quadratic level (2nd degree) solve by
factoring or use quadratic formula.
Solve
𝑥3 + 𝑥2 + 𝑥 − 3 = 0
Find the roots.
𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 4 − 3𝑥 3 − 8𝑥 2 + 4
Find the zeros.
𝑦 = 2𝑥 3 + 𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 5