x^3-x^2-20x-288=0
using the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra, the Rational Root Theorem, Descartes' Rule of Signs, and the Factor Theorem?

Question

x^3-x^2-20x-288=0 
using the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra, the Rational Root Theorem, Descartes' Rule of Signs, and the Factor Theorem?

mertsj · Answer

The factors of 288 are +-1, +-2, +-3,+-4, +-6, +-8, +-9,+-16, +-18, +-24, +-48, +-144,+-288

mertsj · Answer

I may have missed some.  Those are the possible rational roots.  Use synthetic division to find if any are actually roots.

mertsj · Answer

Hint:  try 8

mertsj · Answer

Also there is one sign sign change so according to Descartes, there is one positive real root.

anonymous · Answer

wow tthank you so much!!