Question

Fan/Medal
Okay I dont understand how to use the rational root theorem....
Use the rational root theorem to list all the possible rational roots for the equation. Then find any actual rational roots...
x^3 - 4x + 1 = 0

Answer 1

@cj49 @KendrickLamar2014 @mathmath333 @dan815

Answer 2

@Hoslos

Answer 3

Alright then. Here goes. The method might be complex, so focus properly and calmly.
This find the roots via this theorem, you have to know how to write the factors of a number. For the case of this type of equation, they just need you to find the factors of the first and last number of the equation.
Taking 1, the factor is just 1
For the first term in the equation, is also 1.
Now to determine the possible roots,:
- do not forget to write +/- for all the values that you will be finding roots
- all the factors of the last term should be the numerators and should be placed separtely.
- all the factors of the 1 term should be the denominators.
- every and each numeration, should divide every and and each denominator ( you know what are the denominators and numerators as I explained earlier)
-
Now we go:
You only have one numerator and one denominator, so you divide them and do not forget to put +/-. Therefore1/1=1. And your possible roots are +1 and -1.

Answer 4

okay.....yikes...ummmm I think i get it....
so basically you just put 1/1 which equals 1.....
but what about the -4...i thought I had to do something with that.... @Hoslos

Answer 5

No. Just deal with the very first and the very last one. Glad you understood.

Answer 6

okay got it! thanks!! @Hoslos

Answer 7

My pleasure.