Approximate the real number solution(s) to the polynomial function f(x) = x3 - 2x2 - 5x + 6 .
Choose one answer. a. x = -3, x = -1, x = 2
b. x = 3, x = 1, x = -2
c. x = 3, x = -1, x = 2
d. x = -3, x = 1, x = -2

Question

Approximate the real number solution(s) to the polynomial function f(x) = x3 - 2x2 - 5x + 6 .
Choose one answer.   a. x = -3, x = -1, x = 2   
  b. x = 3, x = 1, x = -2   
  c. x = 3, x = -1, x = 2   
  d. x = -3, x = 1, x = -2

mathstudent55 · Answer

Set the polynomial equal to zero:

x3 - 2x2 - 5x + 6 = 0

Take each choice and try each value of x in the equation and evaluate the polynomial.
The one that gives you three answers closest to zero is the best approximate answer.