Solving Polynomial Equations
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In the previous chapter we examined polynomial functions.
There is a very small difference between a function and equation.
Polynomial Equation –
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As learned earlier the solutions to a polynomial equation f(x) = 0 are the zeros of the
corresponding polynomial function y=f(x).
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We can solve polynomial equations using the following techniques:
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Not all equations can be factored which leaves us with only graphical techniques.
Ex. 1
Determine the solutions for the following polynomial equation
a) −2𝑥 3 (2𝑥 − 5)(𝑥 − 4)2 = 0
b) 𝑥 3 − 4𝑥 2 = 7𝑥 − 10
Ex. 2
Trevor makes an open topped box from a 30 cm by 30 cm piece of cardboard by cutting out
equal squares from the corners and folding up the flaps to make the sides. What are the
dimensions of each square, to the nearest hundredth of a centimeter, so that the volume of the
resulting box is 1000 cm3?