Polynomial Functions

At the end of this lecture, a student must be able to:

Use synthetic division in dividing a polynomial function by

a linear function

Relate factoring a polynomial to finding its remainder

Find some complex zeros of a polynomial function

 Polynomial Functions

Definition
Let n ∈ N ∪ {0}. A polynomial function of degree n is a
function of the form

p(x) = an xn + an−1 xn−1 + an−2 xn−2 + . . . + a1 x + a0

where a0 , a1 , ..., an−2 , an−1 , an ∈ R, and an 6= 0.

 Polynomial Functions

Definition
Let n ∈ N ∪ {0}. A polynomial function of degree n is a
function of the form

p(x) = an xn + an−1 xn−1 + an−2 xn−2 + . . . + a1 x + a0

where a0 , a1 , ..., an−2 , an−1 , an ∈ R, and an 6= 0.

Note:
1. We refer to an as the leading coefficient of p.
 Polynomial Functions

Definition
Let n ∈ N ∪ {0}. A polynomial function of degree n is a
function of the form

p(x) = an xn + an−1 xn−1 + an−2 xn−2 + . . . + a1 x + a0

where a0 , a1 , ..., an−2 , an−1 , an ∈ R, and an 6= 0.

Note:
1. We refer to an as the leading coefficient of p.
2. We say a0 is the constant coefficient of p.
Examples:
1
1. p(x) = 3x − 2
is a polynomial function of degree 1
(linear).
Examples:
1. p(x) = 3x − 12 is a polynomial function of degree 1
(linear).
√
2. p(x) = 4x − 3x3 + 3 is a polynomial function of
degree 3 (cubic).
Examples:
1. p(x) = 3x − 12 is a polynomial function of degree 1
(linear).
√
2. p(x) = 4x − 3x3 + 3 is a polynomial function of
degree 3 (cubic).
3. p(x) = −3(x2 − 4)2 (x + 1)3 is a polynomial function of
degree
Examples:
1. p(x) = 3x − 12 is a polynomial function of degree 1
(linear).
√
2. p(x) = 4x − 3x3 + 3 is a polynomial function of
degree 3 (cubic).
3. p(x) = −3(x2 − 4)2 (x + 1)3 is a polynomial function of
degree 7.
Examples:
1. p(x) = 3x − 12 is a polynomial function of degree 1
(linear).
√
2. p(x) = 4x − 3x3 + 3 is a polynomial function of
degree 3 (cubic).
3. p(x) = −3(x2 − 4)2 (x + 1)3 is a polynomial function of
degree 7.
√
4. p(x) = x12 − x is not a polynomial function.
 Long Division

Use long division to find (2x3 − x2 + x − 1) ÷ (x − 2)

 Long Division

Use long division to find (2x3 − x2 + x − 1) ÷ (x − 2)

2x2 + 3x + 7


x−2 2x3 − x2 + x − 1
− 2x3 + 4x2
3x2 + x
− 3x2 + 6x
7x − 1
− 7x + 14
13
 Long Division

Use long division to find (2x3 − x2 + x − 1) ÷ (x − 2)

2x2 + 3x + 7


x−2 2x3 − x2 + x − 1
− 2x3 + 4x2
3x2 + x
− 3x2 + 6x
7x − 1
− 7x + 14
13

Hence, 2x3 − x2 + x − 1 = (x − 2)(2x2 + 3x + 7) + 13.

 Division Algorithm
Theorem (Division Algorithm)
If p(x) is a polynomial and r ∈ R then there exists a unique
polynomial q(x) of degree less than that of p(x) and a
unique R ∈ R such that

p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + R.
 Division Algorithm
Theorem (Division Algorithm)
If p(x) is a polynomial and r ∈ R then there exists a unique
polynomial q(x) of degree less than that of p(x) and a
unique R ∈ R such that

p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + R.

Note:
1. We call q the quotient and R the remainder.

p(x) R
= q(x) +
x−r x−r
 Division Algorithm
Theorem (Division Algorithm)
If p(x) is a polynomial and r ∈ R then there exists a unique
polynomial q(x) of degree less than that of p(x) and a
unique R ∈ R such that

p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + R.

Note:
1. We call q the quotient and R the remainder.

p(x) R
= q(x) +
x−r x−r

2. deg q = (deg p) − 1
 Synthetic Division

- a handy method of dividing a polynomial by a binomial of

the form x − r, where r is a constant
 Synthetic Division

- a handy method of dividing a polynomial by a binomial of

the form x − r, where r is a constant

- involves only the coefficients of the polynomials

Consider the example earlier:

(2x3 − x2 + x − 1) ÷ (x − 2)
Consider the example earlier:

(2x3 − x2 + x − 1) ÷ (x − 2)

• Write the coefficients of p(x) in order of decreasing

degree in a horizontal row. On the second row, write r
one column to the left of an .

2 −1 1 −1
2
• Write an on the third row, on the same column.

2 −1 1 −1
2
2
?
• Multiply an by r and write the product in the row
directly below an−1 .

2 −1 1 −1
2 4
*

·2
2
• Add the product and an−1 and write this in the third
row, in the same column as an−1 .

2 −1 1 −1
2 4+
2 3
?
• Repeat the process using the last number obtained in
the third row as the multiplier of r.

2 −1 1 −1
2 4 6
*

·2
2 3
• Repeat the process using the last number obtained in
the third row as the multiplier of r.

2 −1 1 −1
2 4 6+
2 3 7
?
• Repeat the process using the last number obtained in
the third row as the multiplier of r.

2 −1 1 −1
2 4 6 14
*

·2
2 3 7
• Repeat the process using the last number obtained in
the third row as the multiplier of r.

2 −1 1 −1
2 4 6 14+
2 3 7 13
?
• Starting from the leftmost, the entries in the third row
(except the last) are the coefficients of the terms of the
quotient in decreasing order of degrees. The last entry
in the third row is the remainder.

2 −1 1 −1
2 4 6 14+
2 3 7 13
?
 • Starting from the leftmost, the entries in the third row
(except the last) are the coefficients of the terms of the
quotient in decreasing order of degrees. The last entry
in the third row is the remainder.

2 −1 1 −1
2 4 6 14+
2 3 7 13
?

Hence, the quotient is 2x2 + 3x + 7 and the remainder is 13.

Example: (5x3 − x2 + 6) ÷ (x − 4)
Solution:
Example: (5x3 − x2 + 6) ÷ (x − 4)
Solution:

5 −1 0 6
4
Example: (5x3 − x2 + 6) ÷ (x − 4)
Solution:

5 −1 0 6
4
5
?
Example: (5x3 − x2 + 6) ÷ (x − 4)
Solution:

5 −1 0 6
4 20
*

·4
5
Example: (5x3 − x2 + 6) ÷ (x − 4)
Solution:

5 −1 0 6
4 20+
5 19
?
Example: (5x3 − x2 + 6) ÷ (x − 4)
Solution:

5 −1 0 6
4 20 76
*

·4
5 19
Example: (5x3 − x2 + 6) ÷ (x − 4)
Solution:

5 −1 0 6
4 20 76+
5 19 76
?
Example: (5x3 − x2 + 6) ÷ (x − 4)
Solution:

5 −1 0 6
4 20 76 304
*

·4
5 19 76
Example: (5x3 − x2 + 6) ÷ (x − 4)
Solution:

5 −1 0 6
4 20 76 304+
5 19 76 310
?
Example: (5x3 − x2 + 6) ÷ (x − 4)
Solution:

5 −1 0 6
4 20 76 304+
5 19 76 310
?

Hence, the quotient is 5x2 + 19x + 76 and the remainder is

310.
Suppose we divide p(x) by mx + b, where m 6= 0:

p(x) R
= q(x) +
mx + b mx + b
Suppose we divide p(x) by mx + b, where m 6= 0:

p(x) R
= q(x) +
mx + b mx + b
p(x) R
b
= q(x) + (factor out m)
m(x + m ) m(x + mb )
Suppose we divide p(x) by mx + b, where m 6= 0:

p(x) R
= q(x) +
mx + b mx + b
p(x) R
b
= q(x) + (factor out m)
m(x + m ) m(x + mb )
!
p(x) R
m· = m· q(x) + (multiply by m)
m(x + mb ) m(x + b
m
)
Suppose we divide p(x) by mx + b, where m 6= 0:

p(x) R
= q(x) +
mx + b mx + b
p(x) R
b
= q(x) + (factor out m)
m(x + m ) m(x + mb )
!
p(x) R
m· = m· q(x) + (multiply by m)
m(x + mb ) m(x + b
m
)
p(x) R
b
= m · q(x) +
(x + m ) (x + mb )
Suppose we divide p(x) by mx + b, where m 6= 0:

p(x) R
= q(x) +
mx + b mx + b
p(x) R
b
= q(x) + (factor out m)
m(x + m ) m(x + mb )
!
p(x) R
m· = m· q(x) + (multiply by m)
m(x + mb ) m(x + b
m
)
p(x) R
b
= m · q(x) +
(x + m ) (x + mb )

To divide p(x) by mx + b:
Suppose we divide p(x) by mx + b, where m 6= 0:

p(x) R
= q(x) +
mx + b mx + b
p(x) R
b
= q(x) + (factor out m)
m(x + m ) m(x + mb )
!
p(x) R
m· = m· q(x) + (multiply by m)
m(x + mb ) m(x + b
m
)
p(x) R
b
= m · q(x) +
(x + m ) (x + mb )

To divide p(x) by mx + b:
1. Divide p(x) by x + mb (in x − r, r = − mb )
Suppose we divide p(x) by mx + b, where m 6= 0:

p(x) R
= q(x) +
mx + b mx + b
p(x) R
b
= q(x) + (factor out m)
m(x + m ) m(x + mb )
!
p(x) R
m· = m· q(x) + (multiply by m)
m(x + mb ) m(x + b
m
)
p(x) R
b
= m · q(x) +
(x + m ) (x + mb )

To divide p(x) by mx + b:
1. Divide p(x) by x + mb (in x − r, r = − mb )
2. Remainder is the same
Suppose we divide p(x) by mx + b, where m 6= 0:

p(x) R
= q(x) +
mx + b mx + b
p(x) R
b
= q(x) + (factor out m)
m(x + m ) m(x + mb )
!
p(x) R
m· = m· q(x) + (multiply by m)
m(x + mb ) m(x + b
m
)
p(x) R
b
= m · q(x) +
(x + m ) (x + mb )

To divide p(x) by mx + b:
1. Divide p(x) by x + mb (in x − r, r = − mb )
2. Remainder is the same
3. Divide the quotient obtained by m
Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3
− 2
Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3
− 2
4
Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3
− 2
−6
4
Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3
− 2
−6
4 −6
Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3
− 2
−6 9
4 −6
Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3
− 2
−6 9
4 − 6 10
Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3
− 2
−6 9 − 15
4 − 6 10
Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3
− 2
−6 9 − 15
4 − 6 10 − 17
Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3 51
− 2
−6 9 − 15 2
4 − 6 10 − 17
Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3 51
− 2
−6 9 − 15 2
51
4 − 6 10 − 17 2
Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3 51 153
− 2
−6 9 − 15 2
− 4
51
4 − 6 10 − 17 2
Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3 51 153
− 2
−6 9 − 15 2
− 4
51 149
4 − 6 10 − 17 2
− 4
Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3 51 153
− 2
−6 9 − 15 2
− 4
51 149
4 − 6 10 − 17 2
− 4

Retaining the remainder and dividing the quotient by m:

4x5 +x3 −2x2 +1 = (2x+3)

Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3 51 153
− 2
−6 9 − 15 2
− 4
51 149
4 − 6 10 − 17 2
− 4

Retaining the remainder and dividing the quotient by m:

4x5 +x3 −2x2 +1 = (2x+3)(2x4

Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3 51 153
− 2
−6 9 − 15 2
− 4
51 149
4 − 6 10 − 17 2
− 4

Retaining the remainder and dividing the quotient by m:

4x5 +x3 −2x2 +1 = (2x+3)(2x4 −3x3

Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3 51 153
− 2
−6 9 − 15 2
− 4
51 149
4 − 6 10 − 17 2
− 4

Retaining the remainder and dividing the quotient by m:

4x5 +x3 −2x2 +1 = (2x+3)(2x4 −3x3 +5x2 − 17

2
x+ 51
4
)
Example: (4x5 + x3 − 2x2 + 1) ÷ (2x + 3)
Solution:
Divide by x − r where r = − mb :

4 0 1 −2 0 1
3 51 153
− 2
−6 9 − 15 2
− 4
51 149
4 − 6 10 − 17 2
− 4

Retaining the remainder and dividing the quotient by m:

4x5 +x3 −2x2 +1 = (2x+3)(2x4 −3x3 +5x2 − 17

2
x+ 51
4
)+(− 149
4
).
Definition
A polynomial function f is said to be a factor of p if
p(x) = f (x)g(x) for some polynomial g(x).

Examples:
1. f (x) = 4 and g(x) = x − 2 are factors of
P (x) = 4x − 8.
Definition
A polynomial function f is said to be a factor of p if
p(x) = f (x)g(x) for some polynomial g(x).

Examples:
1. f (x) = 4 and g(x) = x − 2 are factors of
P (x) = 4x − 8.
√ √
2. f (x) = x − 22 and g(x) = x + 2
2
are factors of
P (x) = x2 − 12 .
Definition
Given a polynomial p, we say a complex number r is a zero
of p if p(r) = 0.
Definition
Given a polynomial p, we say a complex number r is a zero
of p if p(r) = 0.
√ √
Example: 2 and −2 are zeros of p(x) = x4 − 4.

Note: For this part, we will consider polynomial functions

but with the domain C.
 Remainder Theorem
Let q be the quotient and R the remainder when p is
divided by x − r,

p(x) = q(x)(x − r) + R.
 Remainder Theorem
Let q be the quotient and R the remainder when p is
divided by x − r,

p(x) = q(x)(x − r) + R.

Then,
p(r) =
 Remainder Theorem
Let q be the quotient and R the remainder when p is
divided by x − r,

p(x) = q(x)(x − r) + R.

Then,
p(r) = q(r)(r − r) + R
 Remainder Theorem
Let q be the quotient and R the remainder when p is
divided by x − r,

p(x) = q(x)(x − r) + R.

Then,
p(r) = q(r)(r − r) + R = R.
 Remainder Theorem
Let q be the quotient and R the remainder when p is
divided by x − r,

p(x) = q(x)(x − r) + R.

Then,
p(r) = q(r)(r − r) + R = R.

Theorem (Remainder Theorem)

If p is a polynomial function, then the remainder when p(x)
is divided by x − r is p(r).
Previous Example: (2x3 − x2 + x − 1) ÷ (x − 2) has
remainder 13 .
Previous Example: (2x3 − x2 + x − 1) ÷ (x − 2) has
remainder 13 .
Remainder Theorem: Evaluate the dividend at 2 to get the
remainder
Previous Example: (2x3 − x2 + x − 1) ÷ (x − 2) has
remainder 13 .
Remainder Theorem: Evaluate the dividend at 2 to get the
remainder

2(2)3 − (2)2 + 2 − 1 =
Previous Example: (2x3 − x2 + x − 1) ÷ (x − 2) has
remainder 13 .
Remainder Theorem: Evaluate the dividend at 2 to get the
remainder

2(2)3 − (2)2 + 2 − 1 = 16 − 4 + 2 − 1 =
Previous Example: (2x3 − x2 + x − 1) ÷ (x − 2) has
remainder 13 .
Remainder Theorem: Evaluate the dividend at 2 to get the
remainder

2(2)3 − (2)2 + 2 − 1 = 16 − 4 + 2 − 1 = 13
Previous Example: (2x3 − x2 + x − 1) ÷ (x − 2) has
remainder 13 .
Remainder Theorem: Evaluate the dividend at 2 to get the
remainder

2(2)3 − (2)2 + 2 − 1 = 16 − 4 + 2 − 1 = 13

Example: What is the remainder when

p(x) = 2x3 + 5x2 − 2x − 1 is divided by (x + 3)?
Previous Example: (2x3 − x2 + x − 1) ÷ (x − 2) has
remainder 13 .
Remainder Theorem: Evaluate the dividend at 2 to get the
remainder

2(2)3 − (2)2 + 2 − 1 = 16 − 4 + 2 − 1 = 13

Example: What is the remainder when

p(x) = 2x3 + 5x2 − 2x − 1 is divided by (x + 3)?
By the Remainder Theorem, the remainder is p(−3).
Previous Example: (2x3 − x2 + x − 1) ÷ (x − 2) has
remainder 13 .
Remainder Theorem: Evaluate the dividend at 2 to get the
remainder

2(2)3 − (2)2 + 2 − 1 = 16 − 4 + 2 − 1 = 13

Example: What is the remainder when

p(x) = 2x3 + 5x2 − 2x − 1 is divided by (x + 3)?
By the Remainder Theorem, the remainder is p(−3).
p(−3) = 2(−3)3 + 5(−3)2 − 2(−3) − 1
Previous Example: (2x3 − x2 + x − 1) ÷ (x − 2) has
remainder 13 .
Remainder Theorem: Evaluate the dividend at 2 to get the
remainder

2(2)3 − (2)2 + 2 − 1 = 16 − 4 + 2 − 1 = 13

Example: What is the remainder when

p(x) = 2x3 + 5x2 − 2x − 1 is divided by (x + 3)?
By the Remainder Theorem, the remainder is p(−3).
p(−3) = 2(−3)3 + 5(−3)2 − 2(−3) − 1
= −54 + 45 + 6 − 1
Previous Example: (2x3 − x2 + x − 1) ÷ (x − 2) has
remainder 13 .
Remainder Theorem: Evaluate the dividend at 2 to get the
remainder

2(2)3 − (2)2 + 2 − 1 = 16 − 4 + 2 − 1 = 13

Example: What is the remainder when

p(x) = 2x3 + 5x2 − 2x − 1 is divided by (x + 3)?
By the Remainder Theorem, the remainder is p(−3).
p(−3) = 2(−3)3 + 5(−3)2 − 2(−3) − 1
= −54 + 45 + 6 − 1
= −4.
Example: Find the value of a so that the remainder is 2
when 5x100 + ax80 + 2x25 − 5 is divided by (x + 1).
Solution:
Example: Find the value of a so that the remainder is 2
when 5x100 + ax80 + 2x25 − 5 is divided by (x + 1).
Solution:
Let p(x) = 5x100 + ax80 + 2x25 − 5 and r = −1,

2 = 5(−1)100 + a(−1)80 + 2(−1)25 − 5

Example: Find the value of a so that the remainder is 2
when 5x100 + ax80 + 2x25 − 5 is divided by (x + 1).
Solution:
Let p(x) = 5x100 + ax80 + 2x25 − 5 and r = −1,

2 = 5(−1)100 + a(−1)80 + 2(−1)25 − 5

2 = 5+a−2−5
Example: Find the value of a so that the remainder is 2
when 5x100 + ax80 + 2x25 − 5 is divided by (x + 1).
Solution:
Let p(x) = 5x100 + ax80 + 2x25 − 5 and r = −1,

2 = 5(−1)100 + a(−1)80 + 2(−1)25 − 5

2 = 5+a−2−5
2 = −2 + a
Example: Find the value of a so that the remainder is 2
when 5x100 + ax80 + 2x25 − 5 is divided by (x + 1).
Solution:
Let p(x) = 5x100 + ax80 + 2x25 − 5 and r = −1,

2 = 5(−1)100 + a(−1)80 + 2(−1)25 − 5

2 = 5+a−2−5
2 = −2 + a
a = 4
Therefore, the value of a must be 4.
 Factor Theorem

Suppose p(r) = 0.
 Factor Theorem

Suppose p(r) = 0. Then

p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + R
 Factor Theorem

Suppose p(r) = 0. Then

p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + R
p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + p(r)
 Factor Theorem

Suppose p(r) = 0. Then

p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + R
p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + p(r)
p(x) = (x − r)q(x)
Therefore, x − r is a factor
of p(x).
 Factor Theorem

Suppose p(r) = 0. Then Conversely, if x − r is a

p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + R factor of p(x),
p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + p(r)
p(x) = (x − r)q(x)
Therefore, x − r is a factor
of p(x).
 Factor Theorem

Suppose p(r) = 0. Then Conversely, if x − r is a

p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + R factor of p(x), then there is
a polynomial g(x) such that
p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + p(r)
p(x) = (x − r)q(x) p(x) = (x − r)g(x)
Therefore, x − r is a factor
of p(x).
 Factor Theorem

Suppose p(r) = 0. Then Conversely, if x − r is a

p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + R factor of p(x), then there is
a polynomial g(x) such that
p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + p(r)
p(x) = (x − r)q(x) p(x) = (x − r)g(x)
Therefore, x − r is a factor ⇒ p(r) = (r − r)g(r)
of p(x).
 Factor Theorem

Suppose p(r) = 0. Then Conversely, if x − r is a

p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + R factor of p(x), then there is
a polynomial g(x) such that
p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + p(r)
p(x) = (x − r)q(x) p(x) = (x − r)g(x)
Therefore, x − r is a factor ⇒ p(r) = (r − r)g(r)
of p(x). ⇒ p(r) = 0
 Factor Theorem

Suppose p(r) = 0. Then Conversely, if x − r is a

p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + R factor of p(x), then there is
a polynomial g(x) such that
p(x) = (x − r)q(x) + p(r)
p(x) = (x − r)q(x) p(x) = (x − r)g(x)
Therefore, x − r is a factor ⇒ p(r) = (r − r)g(r)
of p(x). ⇒ p(r) = 0

Theorem (Factor Theorem)

If p is a polynomial function, then

x − r is a factor of p(x) if and only if p(r) = 0.

Ex. Verify that 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 has x − 2 and
x + 3 as factors.
Solution:
Ex. Verify that 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 has x − 2 and
x + 3 as factors.
Solution:
Let p(x) = 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 and compute p(2) and
p(−3).
Ex. Verify that 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 has x − 2 and
x + 3 as factors.
Solution:
Let p(x) = 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 and compute p(2) and
p(−3).

p(2) = 3(2)4 + 2(2)3 − 24(2)2 + (2) + 30

Ex. Verify that 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 has x − 2 and
x + 3 as factors.
Solution:
Let p(x) = 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 and compute p(2) and
p(−3).

p(2) = 3(2)4 + 2(2)3 − 24(2)2 + (2) + 30

= 48 + 16 − 96 + 2 + 30
Ex. Verify that 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 has x − 2 and
x + 3 as factors.
Solution:
Let p(x) = 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 and compute p(2) and
p(−3).

p(2) = 3(2)4 + 2(2)3 − 24(2)2 + (2) + 30

= 48 + 16 − 96 + 2 + 30
= 0.
Ex. Verify that 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 has x − 2 and
x + 3 as factors.
Solution:
Let p(x) = 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 and compute p(2) and
p(−3).

p(2) = 3(2)4 + 2(2)3 − 24(2)2 + (2) + 30

= 48 + 16 − 96 + 2 + 30
= 0.
p(−3) = 3(−3)4 + 2(−3)3 − 24(−3)2 + (−3) + 30
Ex. Verify that 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 has x − 2 and
x + 3 as factors.
Solution:
Let p(x) = 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 and compute p(2) and
p(−3).

p(2) = 3(2)4 + 2(2)3 − 24(2)2 + (2) + 30

= 48 + 16 − 96 + 2 + 30
= 0.
p(−3) = 3(−3)4 + 2(−3)3 − 24(−3)2 + (−3) + 30
= 243 − 54 − 216 − 3 + 30
Ex. Verify that 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 has x − 2 and
x + 3 as factors.
Solution:
Let p(x) = 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 and compute p(2) and
p(−3).

p(2) = 3(2)4 + 2(2)3 − 24(2)2 + (2) + 30

= 48 + 16 − 96 + 2 + 30
= 0.
p(−3) = 3(−3)4 + 2(−3)3 − 24(−3)2 + (−3) + 30
= 243 − 54 − 216 − 3 + 30
= 0.
Ex. Verify that 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 has x − 2 and
x + 3 as factors.
Solution:
Let p(x) = 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30 and compute p(2) and
p(−3).

p(2) = 3(2)4 + 2(2)3 − 24(2)2 + (2) + 30

= 48 + 16 − 96 + 2 + 30
= 0.
p(−3) = 3(−3)4 + 2(−3)3 − 24(−3)2 + (−3) + 30
= 243 − 54 − 216 − 3 + 30
= 0.

By the Factor Theorem, (x − 2) and (x + 3) are factors of

p(x) = 3x4 + 2x3 − 24x2 + x + 30.
Ex. Find the value of k so that x + 2 is a factor of
x3 + 2kx2 + 3x − k.
Solution:
Ex. Find the value of k so that x + 2 is a factor of
x3 + 2kx2 + 3x − k.
Solution:
By the Factor Theorem, P (−2) = 0. Thus,
Ex. Find the value of k so that x + 2 is a factor of
x3 + 2kx2 + 3x − k.
Solution:
By the Factor Theorem, P (−2) = 0. Thus,

0 = (−2)3 + 2k(−2)2 + 3(−2) − k

Ex. Find the value of k so that x + 2 is a factor of
x3 + 2kx2 + 3x − k.
Solution:
By the Factor Theorem, P (−2) = 0. Thus,

0 = (−2)3 + 2k(−2)2 + 3(−2) − k

0 = −8 + 8k − 6 − k
Ex. Find the value of k so that x + 2 is a factor of
x3 + 2kx2 + 3x − k.
Solution:
By the Factor Theorem, P (−2) = 0. Thus,

0 = (−2)3 + 2k(−2)2 + 3(−2) − k

0 = −8 + 8k − 6 − k
14 = 7k
Ex. Find the value of k so that x + 2 is a factor of
x3 + 2kx2 + 3x − k.
Solution:
By the Factor Theorem, P (−2) = 0. Thus,

0 = (−2)3 + 2k(−2)2 + 3(−2) − k

0 = −8 + 8k − 6 − k
14 = 7k
k=2
 GOAL:

Find all zeros of a polynomial function of

degree n.
Theorem (Fundamental Theorem of Algebra)
Every non-constant polynomial with complex coefficients
has at least one complex zero.
Theorem (Fundamental Theorem of Algebra)
Every non-constant polynomial with complex coefficients
has at least one complex zero.
Consequence:
Theorem (Factored Form of a Polynomial)
If a polynomial p(x) has degree n and leading coefficient an ,
then
p(x) = an (x − r1 )(x − r2 )...(x − rn )
where r1 , r2 , ..., rn (not necessarily distinct) are the roots
of p.
Example: The only solutions to x2 + 1 = 0 are i and −i.
Therefore, x2 + 1 = (x + i)(x − i).
Example: The only solutions to x2 + 1 = 0 are i and −i.
Therefore, x2 + 1 = (x + i)(x − i).

Example: Find the factored form of x2 − 3x − 23 .

Example: The only solutions to x2 + 1 = 0 are i and −i.
Therefore, x2 + 1 = (x + i)(x − i).

Example: Find the factored form of x2 − 3x − 23 .

We solve x2 − 3x − 32 = 0.
Example: The only solutions to x2 + 1 = 0 are i and −i.
Therefore, x2 + 1 = (x + i)(x − i).

Example: Find the factored form of x2 − 3x − 23 .

We solve x2 − 3x − 32 = 0.

3±
x=
Example: The only solutions to x2 + 1 = 0 are i and −i.
Therefore, x2 + 1 = (x + i)(x − i).

Example: Find the factored form of x2 − 3x − 23 .

We solve x2 − 3x − 32 = 0.
q
3± 9
x=
Example: The only solutions to x2 + 1 = 0 are i and −i.
Therefore, x2 + 1 = (x + i)(x − i).

Example: Find the factored form of x2 − 3x − 23 .

We solve x2 − 3x − 32 = 0.
q
3 ± 9 − 4(1)(− 23 )
x=
Example: The only solutions to x2 + 1 = 0 are i and −i.
Therefore, x2 + 1 = (x + i)(x − i).

Example: Find the factored form of x2 − 3x − 23 .

We solve x2 − 3x − 32 = 0.
q
3 ± 9 − 4(1)(− 23 )
x=
2
Example: The only solutions to x2 + 1 = 0 are i and −i.
Therefore, x2 + 1 = (x + i)(x − i).

Example: Find the factored form of x2 − 3x − 23 .

We solve x2 − 3x − 32 = 0.
q
3 ± 9 − 4(1)(− 23 )
x=
2
√
3 ± 15
=
2
Example: The only solutions to x2 + 1 = 0 are i and −i.
Therefore, x2 + 1 = (x + i)(x − i).

Example: Find the factored form of x2 − 3x − 23 .

We solve x2 − 3x − 32 = 0.
q
3 ± 9 − 4(1)(− 23 )
x=
2
√
3 ± 15
=
2
3
Thus, x2 − 3x − 2
=
Example: The only solutions to x2 + 1 = 0 are i and −i.
Therefore, x2 + 1 = (x + i)(x − i).

Example: Find the factored form of x2 − 3x − 23 .

We solve x2 − 3x − 32 = 0.
q
3 ± 9 − 4(1)(− 23 )
x=
2
√
3 ± 15
=
2
√

3 3+ 15
Thus, x2 − 3x − 2
= x− 2
Example: The only solutions to x2 + 1 = 0 are i and −i.
Therefore, x2 + 1 = (x + i)(x − i).

Example: Find the factored form of x2 − 3x − 23 .

We solve x2 − 3x − 32 = 0.
q
3 ± 9 − 4(1)(− 23 )
x=
2
√
3 ± 15
=
2
√
√

3 3+ 15 3− 15
Thus, x2 − 3x − 2
= x− 2
x− 2
.
 Multiplicity
Definition
Let p(x) be a polynomial of degree n
 Multiplicity
Definition
Let p(x) be a polynomial of degree n and suppose we can
factor p(x) as

p(x) = an (x − r1 )m1 (x − r2 )m2 ...(x − rk )mk

for some positive integer k ≤ n and distinct complex

numbers r1 , . . . , rk .
 Multiplicity
Definition
Let p(x) be a polynomial of degree n and suppose we can
factor p(x) as

p(x) = an (x − r1 )m1 (x − r2 )m2 ...(x − rk )mk

for some positive integer k ≤ n and distinct complex

numbers r1 , . . . , rk . We say that r1 is a zero of p(x) with
multiplicity m1 ,
 Multiplicity
Definition
Let p(x) be a polynomial of degree n and suppose we can
factor p(x) as

p(x) = an (x − r1 )m1 (x − r2 )m2 ...(x − rk )mk

for some positive integer k ≤ n and distinct complex

numbers r1 , . . . , rk . We say that r1 is a zero of p(x) with
multiplicity m1 , r2 is a zero of p(x) with multiplicity m2 ,
 Multiplicity
Definition
Let p(x) be a polynomial of degree n and suppose we can
factor p(x) as

p(x) = an (x − r1 )m1 (x − r2 )m2 ...(x − rk )mk

for some positive integer k ≤ n and distinct complex

numbers r1 , . . . , rk . We say that r1 is a zero of p(x) with
multiplicity m1 , r2 is a zero of p(x) with multiplicity m2 , ...,
rk is a zero of p(x) with multiplicity mk .
 Multiplicity
Definition
Let p(x) be a polynomial of degree n and suppose we can
factor p(x) as

p(x) = an (x − r1 )m1 (x − r2 )m2 ...(x − rk )mk

for some positive integer k ≤ n and distinct complex

numbers r1 , . . . , rk . We say that r1 is a zero of p(x) with
multiplicity m1 , r2 is a zero of p(x) with multiplicity m2 , ...,
rk is a zero of p(x) with multiplicity mk .

Example:
For p(x) = 7x(x − 3)2 , we say 3 is a zero of multiplicity 2
and 0 is a zero of multiplicity 1.
Note:
1. The degree of p(x) is m1 + m2 + ... + mk .
Note:
1. The degree of p(x) is m1 + m2 + ... + mk .
2. If a root of p(x) has multiplicity one, we say it is a
simple root. If it has multiplicity two, it is a double
root. Triple roots have multiplicity three, and so on.
Note:
1. The degree of p(x) is m1 + m2 + ... + mk .
2. If a root of p(x) has multiplicity one, we say it is a
simple root. If it has multiplicity two, it is a double
root. Triple roots have multiplicity three, and so on.
3. A polynomial can be expressed as a product of linear
factors with complex coefficients.
Note:
1. The degree of p(x) is m1 + m2 + ... + mk .
2. If a root of p(x) has multiplicity one, we say it is a
simple root. If it has multiplicity two, it is a double
root. Triple roots have multiplicity three, and so on.
3. A polynomial can be expressed as a product of linear
factors with complex coefficients.

Theorem
A polynomial of degree n has exactly n complex zeros,
counting multiplicities.
From above, m1 + m2 + ... + mk = n
Example: Find a polynomial function p(x) of least degree
having 2 and 4 as simple roots, with −1 being a zero of
multiplicity two, and p(1) = 3.
Solution:

Factors of p(x):
Example: Find a polynomial function p(x) of least degree
having 2 and 4 as simple roots, with −1 being a zero of
multiplicity two, and p(1) = 3.
Solution:

Factors of p(x):
x − 2,
Example: Find a polynomial function p(x) of least degree
having 2 and 4 as simple roots, with −1 being a zero of
multiplicity two, and p(1) = 3.
Solution:

Factors of p(x):
x − 2, x − 4,
Example: Find a polynomial function p(x) of least degree
having 2 and 4 as simple roots, with −1 being a zero of
multiplicity two, and p(1) = 3.
Solution:

Factors of p(x):
x − 2, x − 4, (x + 1)2
Example: Find a polynomial function p(x) of least degree
having 2 and 4 as simple roots, with −1 being a zero of
multiplicity two, and p(1) = 3.
Solution:

Factors of p(x):
x − 2, x − 4, (x + 1)2

⇒ p(x) = an (x−2)(x−4)(x+1)2
Example: Find a polynomial function p(x) of least degree
having 2 and 4 as simple roots, with −1 being a zero of
multiplicity two, and p(1) = 3.
Solution:

Factors of p(x): an (1 − 2)(1 − 4)(1 + 1)2 = 3

x − 2, x − 4, (x + 1)2

⇒ p(x) = an (x−2)(x−4)(x+1)2
Example: Find a polynomial function p(x) of least degree
having 2 and 4 as simple roots, with −1 being a zero of
multiplicity two, and p(1) = 3.
Solution:

Factors of p(x): an (1 − 2)(1 − 4)(1 + 1)2 = 3

x − 2, x − 4, (x + 1)2 an (−1)(−3)(2)2 = 3

⇒ p(x) = an (x−2)(x−4)(x+1)2
Example: Find a polynomial function p(x) of least degree
having 2 and 4 as simple roots, with −1 being a zero of
multiplicity two, and p(1) = 3.
Solution:

Factors of p(x): an (1 − 2)(1 − 4)(1 + 1)2 = 3

x − 2, x − 4, (x + 1)2 an (−1)(−3)(2)2 = 3
12an = 3
⇒ p(x) = an (x−2)(x−4)(x+1)2
Example: Find a polynomial function p(x) of least degree
having 2 and 4 as simple roots, with −1 being a zero of
multiplicity two, and p(1) = 3.
Solution:

Factors of p(x): an (1 − 2)(1 − 4)(1 + 1)2 =3

x − 2, x − 4, (x + 1)2 an (−1)(−3)(2)2 =3
12an =3
2
⇒ p(x) = an (x−2)(x−4)(x+1) an = 14
Example: Find a polynomial function p(x) of least degree
having 2 and 4 as simple roots, with −1 being a zero of
multiplicity two, and p(1) = 3.
Solution:

Factors of p(x): an (1 − 2)(1 − 4)(1 + 1)2 =3

x − 2, x − 4, (x + 1)2 an (−1)(−3)(2)2 =3
12an =3
2
⇒ p(x) = an (x−2)(x−4)(x+1) an = 14

1
p(x) = (x − 2)(x − 4)(x + 1)2
4
 Complex Zeros
Theorem
If z is a zero of the polynomial function p having real
coefficients, then its complex conjugate z is also a zero of p.
 Complex Zeros
Theorem
If z is a zero of the polynomial function p having real
coefficients, then its complex conjugate z is also a zero of p.
Example: Consider p(x) = x3 − x2 + 4x − 4.

p(2i) = (2i)3 − (2i)2 + 4(2i) − 4

 Complex Zeros
Theorem
If z is a zero of the polynomial function p having real
coefficients, then its complex conjugate z is also a zero of p.
Example: Consider p(x) = x3 − x2 + 4x − 4.

p(2i) = (2i)3 − (2i)2 + 4(2i) − 4

= −8i + 4 + 8i − 4
 Complex Zeros
Theorem
If z is a zero of the polynomial function p having real
coefficients, then its complex conjugate z is also a zero of p.
Example: Consider p(x) = x3 − x2 + 4x − 4.

p(2i) = (2i)3 − (2i)2 + 4(2i) − 4

= −8i + 4 + 8i − 4
= 0.
 Complex Zeros
Theorem
If z is a zero of the polynomial function p having real
coefficients, then its complex conjugate z is also a zero of p.
Example: Consider p(x) = x3 − x2 + 4x − 4.

p(2i) = (2i)3 − (2i)2 + 4(2i) − 4

= −8i + 4 + 8i − 4
= 0.
Since 2i is a zero of p,
 Complex Zeros
Theorem
If z is a zero of the polynomial function p having real
coefficients, then its complex conjugate z is also a zero of p.
Example: Consider p(x) = x3 − x2 + 4x − 4.

p(2i) = (2i)3 − (2i)2 + 4(2i) − 4

= −8i + 4 + 8i − 4
= 0.
Since 2i is a zero of p, −2i is also a zero of p.
 Complex Zeros
Theorem
If z is a zero of the polynomial function p having real
coefficients, then its complex conjugate z is also a zero of p.
Example: Consider p(x) = x3 − x2 + 4x − 4.

p(2i) = (2i)3 − (2i)2 + 4(2i) − 4

= −8i + 4 + 8i − 4
= 0.
Since 2i is a zero of p, −2i is also a zero of p. Indeed,

p(−2i) = (−2i)3 − (−2i)2 + 4(−2i) − 4

 Complex Zeros
Theorem
If z is a zero of the polynomial function p having real
coefficients, then its complex conjugate z is also a zero of p.
Example: Consider p(x) = x3 − x2 + 4x − 4.

p(2i) = (2i)3 − (2i)2 + 4(2i) − 4

= −8i + 4 + 8i − 4
= 0.
Since 2i is a zero of p, −2i is also a zero of p. Indeed,

p(−2i) = (−2i)3 − (−2i)2 + 4(−2i) − 4

= 8i + 4 − 8i − 4
 Complex Zeros
Theorem
If z is a zero of the polynomial function p having real
coefficients, then its complex conjugate z is also a zero of p.
Example: Consider p(x) = x3 − x2 + 4x − 4.

p(2i) = (2i)3 − (2i)2 + 4(2i) − 4

= −8i + 4 + 8i − 4
= 0.
Since 2i is a zero of p, −2i is also a zero of p. Indeed,

p(−2i) = (−2i)3 − (−2i)2 + 4(−2i) − 4

= 8i + 4 − 8i − 4
= 0.
Example: Find a polynomial function P with real
coefficients having 3 as a zero of multipicity 2 and 1 + i as a
zero of multiplicity 1 such that P (0) = 36.
Solution:
Example: Find a polynomial function P with real
coefficients having 3 as a zero of multipicity 2 and 1 + i as a
zero of multiplicity 1 such that P (0) = 36.
Solution: Since 1 + i is a zero of P , then so is 1 − i.
Example: Find a polynomial function P with real
coefficients having 3 as a zero of multipicity 2 and 1 + i as a
zero of multiplicity 1 such that P (0) = 36.
Solution: Since 1 + i is a zero of P , then so is 1 − i.
P (x) = k(x − 3)2 [x − (1 + i)][x − (1 − i)]
Example: Find a polynomial function P with real
coefficients having 3 as a zero of multipicity 2 and 1 + i as a
zero of multiplicity 1 such that P (0) = 36.
Solution: Since 1 + i is a zero of P , then so is 1 − i.
P (x) = k(x − 3)2 [x − (1 + i)][x − (1 − i)]
= k(x − 3)2 [x − 1 − i][x − 1 + i]
Example: Find a polynomial function P with real
coefficients having 3 as a zero of multipicity 2 and 1 + i as a
zero of multiplicity 1 such that P (0) = 36.
Solution: Since 1 + i is a zero of P , then so is 1 − i.
P (x) = k(x − 3)2 [x − (1 + i)][x − (1 − i)]
= k(x − 3)2 [x − 1 − i][x − 1 + i]
= k(x − 3)2 [(x − 1)2 − (i)2 ]
Example: Find a polynomial function P with real
coefficients having 3 as a zero of multipicity 2 and 1 + i as a
zero of multiplicity 1 such that P (0) = 36.
Solution: Since 1 + i is a zero of P , then so is 1 − i.
P (x) = k(x − 3)2 [x − (1 + i)][x − (1 − i)]
= k(x − 3)2 [x − 1 − i][x − 1 + i]
= k(x − 3)2 [(x − 1)2 − (i)2 ]
= k(x − 3)2 (x2 − 2x + 1 − (−1))
Example: Find a polynomial function P with real
coefficients having 3 as a zero of multipicity 2 and 1 + i as a
zero of multiplicity 1 such that P (0) = 36.
Solution: Since 1 + i is a zero of P , then so is 1 − i.
P (x) = k(x − 3)2 [x − (1 + i)][x − (1 − i)]
= k(x − 3)2 [x − 1 − i][x − 1 + i]
= k(x − 3)2 [(x − 1)2 − (i)2 ]
= k(x − 3)2 (x2 − 2x + 1 − (−1))
= k(x − 3)2 (x2 − 2x + 2)
Example: Find a polynomial function P with real
coefficients having 3 as a zero of multipicity 2 and 1 + i as a
zero of multiplicity 1 such that P (0) = 36.
Solution: Since 1 + i is a zero of P , then so is 1 − i.
P (x) = k(x − 3)2 [x − (1 + i)][x − (1 − i)]
= k(x − 3)2 [x − 1 − i][x − 1 + i]
= k(x − 3)2 [(x − 1)2 − (i)2 ]
= k(x − 3)2 (x2 − 2x + 1 − (−1))
= k(x − 3)2 (x2 − 2x + 2)
P (0) = 36
Example: Find a polynomial function P with real
coefficients having 3 as a zero of multipicity 2 and 1 + i as a
zero of multiplicity 1 such that P (0) = 36.
Solution: Since 1 + i is a zero of P , then so is 1 − i.
P (x) = k(x − 3)2 [x − (1 + i)][x − (1 − i)]
= k(x − 3)2 [x − 1 − i][x − 1 + i]
= k(x − 3)2 [(x − 1)2 − (i)2 ]
= k(x − 3)2 (x2 − 2x + 1 − (−1))
= k(x − 3)2 (x2 − 2x + 2)
P (0) = 36
k(−3)2 (2) = 36
Example: Find a polynomial function P with real
coefficients having 3 as a zero of multipicity 2 and 1 + i as a
zero of multiplicity 1 such that P (0) = 36.
Solution: Since 1 + i is a zero of P , then so is 1 − i.
P (x) = k(x − 3)2 [x − (1 + i)][x − (1 − i)]
= k(x − 3)2 [x − 1 − i][x − 1 + i]
= k(x − 3)2 [(x − 1)2 − (i)2 ]
= k(x − 3)2 (x2 − 2x + 1 − (−1))
= k(x − 3)2 (x2 − 2x + 2)
P (0) = 36
k(−3)2 (2) = 36
18k = 36
Example: Find a polynomial function P with real
coefficients having 3 as a zero of multipicity 2 and 1 + i as a
zero of multiplicity 1 such that P (0) = 36.
Solution: Since 1 + i is a zero of P , then so is 1 − i.
P (x) = k(x − 3)2 [x − (1 + i)][x − (1 − i)]
= k(x − 3)2 [x − 1 − i][x − 1 + i]
= k(x − 3)2 [(x − 1)2 − (i)2 ]
= k(x − 3)2 (x2 − 2x + 1 − (−1))
= k(x − 3)2 (x2 − 2x + 2)
P (0) = 36 Thus the polynomial
k(−3)2 (2) = 36 function is
18k = 36
P (x) = 2(x − 3)2 (x2 − 2x + 2)
k=2
Note that
Note that

[x − (a + bi)][x − (a − bi)] = [(x − a) − bi][(x − a) + bi]

Note that

[x − (a + bi)][x − (a − bi)] = [(x − a) − bi][(x − a) + bi]

= (x − a)2 − (bi)2
Note that

[x − (a + bi)][x − (a − bi)] = [(x − a) − bi][(x − a) + bi]

= (x − a)2 − (bi)2
= x2 − 2ax + a2
Note that

[x − (a + bi)][x − (a − bi)] = [(x − a) − bi][(x − a) + bi]

= (x − a)2 − (bi)2
= x2 − 2ax + a2 + b2
Note that

[x − (a + bi)][x − (a − bi)] = [(x − a) − bi][(x − a) + bi]

= (x − a)2 − (bi)2
= x2 − 2ax + a2 + b2

Note:
1. All polynomials with real coefficients can be expressed
as a product of linear and quadratic factors with real
coefficients.
Note that

[x − (a + bi)][x − (a − bi)] = [(x − a) − bi][(x − a) + bi]

= (x − a)2 − (bi)2
= x2 − 2ax + a2 + b2

Note:
1. All polynomials with real coefficients can be expressed
as a product of linear and quadratic factors with real
coefficients.
2. A polynomial with real coefficients of odd degree
always has a real zero.
Recap:

Use synthetic division in dividing a polynomial function by

a linear function

Relate factoring a polynomial to finding its remainder

Find some complex zeros of a polynomial function

 Exercises
1. Use synthetic division to find the remainder and the
quotient when
(a) f (x) = x5 − 4x + 12 is divided by x − 3
(b) f (x) = 2x4 − x3 − 3x + 8 is divided by 3x + 3
2. Find the value of k so that the remainder is 2 when
x3 + 4x2 + kx + 1 is divided by x + 1.
3. Justify whether or not the following are true.
(a) x + 1 is a factor of 6x2 + 4x5 − x3 − 2 + 3x.
(b) x − a is always a factor of xn − an for any n ∈ N.
4. Form a polynomial equation of least degree satisfying
the following:
(a) having 1 as a double root, 32 as a simple root, and −2
as a root of multiplicity 4
(b) whose roots are the simple root −i and triple root 0