Question
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Using synthetic division, determine whether the numbers are zeros of the polynom
function.

Ask by Boone Bolton. in the United States
Mar 25,2025

Upstudy AI Solution

Tutor-Verified Answer

Answer

-1 is a zero of the polynomial, but 1 is not.

Solution

To determine whether the numbers and are zeros of the polynomial function , we will use synthetic division for each value.

Step 1: Synthetic Division with

  1. Write down the coefficients of the polynomial: .
  2. Set up synthetic division with .
The synthetic division process is as follows:
  • Bring down the leading coefficient (1).
  • Multiply by and add to the next coefficient.
  • Repeat this process for all coefficients.
Let’s perform the synthetic division for :
The remainder is , which means is a zero of the polynomial.

Step 2: Synthetic Division with

Now, let’s perform synthetic division for :
The remainder is , which means is not a zero of the polynomial.

Conclusion

  • is a zero of the polynomial .
  • is not a zero of the polynomial .

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Mind Expander

To check if and are zeros of the polynomial using synthetic division, we start by performing synthetic division with .
  1. Place the coefficients: .
  2. Bring down the leading coefficient (1).
  3. Multiply by and add to the next coefficient:
Since the remainder is after evaluating , this means that is a zero of the polynomial.
Now, let’s check :
  1. Using the same coefficients .
  2. Bring down the leading coefficient (1).
  3. Multiply by and add to the next coefficient:
Since the remainder is , it indicates that is not a zero of the polynomial.
Summarizing, is a zero of and is not.
Did you know that synthetic division is a straightforward and time-saving method for dividing polynomials? It’s like a shortcut in long division but specifically for polynomials, making it an essential tool for quickly finding zeros or simplifying complex expressions.
While synthetic division is an excellent tool, it can sometimes lead to mistakes if you’re not careful with your arithmetic. Always double-check your multiplication and addition steps to ensure that you’re correctly carrying down coefficients. It’s easy to slip up on signs, especially when dealing with negative numbers!

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