Question

Write a polynomial function with the given characteristics:
1. leading coefficient of 1; zeros of -2, 1, and 3

Answer 1

@mathstudent55 @thomaster @satellite73

Answer 2

@ranga

Answer 3

If p, q and r are three zeros, and the leading coefficient is 1, then the polynomial is:
(x - p)(x - q)(x - r). Multiply the three factors and simplify.

Answer 4

(1--2), (1-1), and (1-3)

Answer 5

(x - -2)(x - 1)(x - 3)

Answer 6

why isn't x 1?

Answer 7

Leading coefficient means the constant before the highest powered x term.
For example, in 2x^2 + 3x - 5, the leading coefficient is +2.
In -4x^3 - 3x^2 + 2x - 8, the leading coefficient is -4.

Here they want the leading coefficient to be 1. Not x = 1.

Answer 8

ok so what do I do after (x - -2)(x - 1)(x - 3)?

Answer 9

(x - -2)(x - 1)(x - 3) = (x + 2)(x - 1)(x - 3)
Multiply the first two factors (using FOIL) and simplify. Then multiply the result by the last factor and simplify.

Answer 10

x^3-2x^2-5x+6

Answer 11

Yes. And your leading coefficient, which is the constant before x^3 is 1 as specified in the problem.

Answer 12

so 1x^3-2x^2-5x+6 is the final answer

Answer 13

Yes. But the "1" is assumed. You don't have to type it. I would leave it as:
x^3-2x^2-5x+6

Answer 14

ok thanks for helping

Answer 15

you are welcome.