Module 12 - Zeros of Polynomials

Flashcards on Zeros of Polynomials

Rational Zero Theorem

If a rational zero exists for a polynomial, then it must be of the form Factors of Constant / Factors of Leading Coefficient

Rational Number

Numbers that can be expressed as a fraction or terminate/repeat when in decimal form. Examples: 1, 2, 6, √16=4

Irrational Number

Numbers that cannot be expressed as a fraction and do not terminate/repeat when in decimal form. Examples: √3, 2-√5

Rational Zeros Theorem

A method to find the zeros of a polynomial by testing possible rational zeros, using synthetic division, and solving the resulting quotient.

Quadratic Formula

x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / 2a

Imaginary (Complex) Numbers

i = √−1

Zero Conjugate

If a + bi is a zero, then so is its conjugate a - bi.