Question

Can this equation be factored?
3x^3-5x^2+2x+1

Answer 1

by rational root theorem there might be roots of +-1 , -/+ 3

try seeing if f(1) , f(-1) , f(3) or f(-3) = 0

Answer 2

f(1) andf (-1) do not = 0

Answer 3

Can you please explain what the rational root theorem is?

Answer 4

multiply coefficient of x^3 and x^0 - in this case its 3 and 1
- the roots could be factors of 3 ( including 1)

Answer 5

but neither f(3) or f(-3) are roots either

Answer 6

Oh I see, so this equation cannot be simplified at all.

Answer 7

oh hold on i made an error calculating f(-3)...

Answer 8

no f(-3) not = 0 either

Answer 9

no this can't be factored

Answer 10

Alright thanks!

Answer 11

yw