Solving Polynomial Equations

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What is a polynomial?

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A polynomial is a mathematical expression that consists of variables, coefficients, and non-negative integer exponents, combined using addition, subtraction, and multiplication.

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What are the zeros of a polynomial?

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The zeros of a polynomial are the values of x that make the polynomial equal to zero. They are also known as the roots of the polynomial.

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How do you find the zeros of a polynomial function?

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To find the zeros of a polynomial function, set the polynomial equal to zero and solve for x.

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What is the degree of a polynomial?

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The degree of a polynomial is the highest power of the variable in the polynomial expression.

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What is the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra?

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The Fundamental Theorem of Algebra states that every non-constant polynomial function has at least one complex root.

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What is a real root?

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A real root is a solution to a polynomial equation that is a real number.

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What is a complex root?

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A complex root is a solution to a polynomial equation that includes imaginary numbers.

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What is the x-intercept of a polynomial function?

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The x-intercept of a polynomial function is the point where the graph of the function crosses the x-axis, corresponding to the zeros of the function.

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How do you factor a polynomial?

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To factor a polynomial, express it as a product of its simpler polynomial factors.

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What is synthetic division?

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Synthetic division is a simplified method of dividing a polynomial by a linear factor.