Determine whether 2 is a zero of the polynomial P(x) = 3x3 – 6x2 – 3x – 18 by using the Remainder Theorem. Explain how the Remainder Theorem is useful in finding the zeros of a polynomial function.

Question

superhelp101 · Answer

@IMStuck  do you think you could help me on this problem?

imstuck · Answer

OMG I love these!  Yay!

superhelp101 · Answer

:)

imstuck · Answer

ok if 2 is a solution of your polynomial, you will not have a remainder when you do the division.  Keep in mind that 2 is x = 2, and before it was x = 2, it was (x-2).  SO...if in fact it is a zero of your polynomial, the first factor is NOT x+2, it is x-2.  Let's do this!

imstuck · Answer

I really hope you are familiar with synthetic division!?

superhelp101 · Answer

Yes I am but I might be more comfortable with long division. :)

imstuck · Answer

Ok, let me show the synthetic first...I can almost guarantee you will be a changed person in regards to your preference!  But I will do both for you, ok?

superhelp101 · Answer

sure ok, thanks!

imstuck · Answer

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