Question

Using complete sentences, describe how you would find all possible rational zeros of the polynomial function f(x) = 4x3 - 5x2 + 9x - 6.

Be sure to provide the answer in your explanation.

Answer 1

well there is the rational root theorem

find the factors of the constant... call them q

and find the factors of the coefficient of the leading term.. call them p

then the possible rational roots are q/p

so for \[-6~or~(q) = \pm 1, ~\pm 2, ~\pm 3, ~\pm 6\]
and

\[4~or~ (p)= \pm 1, ~ \pm2, ~ \pm 4\]

hope it helps

Answer 2

sorry i do online classes, we just get the problems with no explanation.. can you explain further? :/ @campbell_st

Answer 3

so once you have the factors then you substitute them

so look at 6/2 = 3 this is a possible rational root.

now substitute it

if f(3) = 0 then 3 is a rational root.

but looking at this question... I think the polynomial is prime...

Answer 4

Here are some online notes that may help

http://tutorial.math.lamar.edu/Classes/Alg/FindingZeroesOfPolynomials.aspx