Ask your own question, for FREE!
Mathematics 17 Online
OpenStudy (anonymous):

find all real values of x such that f (x) = x^3-x^2-4x+4=0

zepdrix (zepdrix):

Hey Aj :)

zepdrix (zepdrix):

\[\Large\rm x^3-x^2-4x\color{orangered}{+4}=0\]By the Rational Root Theorem: Since the leading coefficient is just 1, we can get one of our roots from the factors of positive 4.

zepdrix (zepdrix):

So our roots will come from this selection of 6 numbers: \(\Large\rm \pm1,\pm2,\pm4\) These are the possible integer factors of 4. -1 x 4, 1 x -4, 2 x 2, -2 x -2, All of those numbers, yah?

zepdrix (zepdrix):

For a cubic, we just want to plug the numbers in to find our first root. Let's start with something nice and easy and see if it works or not. x=1

Can't find your answer? Make a FREE account and ask your own questions, OR help others and earn volunteer hours!

Join our real-time social learning platform and learn together with your friends!
Can't find your answer? Make a FREE account and ask your own questions, OR help others and earn volunteer hours!

Join our real-time social learning platform and learn together with your friends!