- Topics At a Glance
- Exponents
- Negative Exponents
- Fractional Exponents
- Irrational Exponents
- Variables as Exponents
- Defining Polynomials
- Degrees of a Polynomial
- Multivariable Polynomials
- Degrees of Multivariable Polynomials
- Special Kinds of Polynomials
- Evaluating Polynomials
- Roots of a Polynomial
- Combining Polynomials
- Multiplying Polynomials
- Multiplication of a Monomial and a Polynomial
- Multiplication of Two Binomials
- Special Cases of Binomial Multiplication
- General Multiplication of Polynomials
- We'll Divide Polynomials Later!
- Factoring Polynomials
- The Greatest Common Factor
- Recognizing Products
- Trial and Error
- Factoring by Grouping
- Summary
- Introduction to Polynomial Equations
- Solving Polynomial Equations
- In the Real World
- I Like Abstract Stuff; Why Should I Care?
- How to Solve a Math Problem
Introduction to Roots Of A Polynomial:
The roots of a polynomial in x are the values of x that, when we evaluate the polynomial at those values, we find 0. Think of it this way: there are two "0"s in the word "root." Fine, they're actually "o"s, but we won't tell anybody if you don't.
Sample Problem
The polynomial x2 - 9 is 0 when evaluated at x = 3 or x = -3.
This means 3 and -3 are the roots of the polynomial x2 – 9.
Roots Of A Polynomial Practice:
Exercise 1
Is -1 a root of the polynomial x3 - 7x + 6?
Exercise 2
Is -3 a root of the polynomial x3 - 7x + 6?
Exercise 3
Is 2 a root of the polynomial x3 - 7x + 6?
