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Lesson 3

1. Lesson 3

1.8. Explore 6

Mathematics 30-1 Module 3

Module 3: Polynomial Functions

 

In Try This 4 and Share 3 you may have discovered that the following values are identical when given a polynomial equation with one side equal to zero:

  • the zeros of the polynomial
  • the roots of the equation
  • the x-intercepts of the graph of the polynomial

These relationships are illustrated in Zeros, Roots, x-intercepts.

 

 
This play button opens Zeros, Roots, x-intercepts.


caution

Having zero on one side of the equation is crucial. If the equation had been something like (2x − 3)(x + 1)(x − 2) = 7 (note the 7 instead of 0), the zeros of the polynomial on the left side would not be the same as the root of the equation (x = 2.7481…)

 

Self-Check 3

 

textbook

  1. Complete questions 3.a., 3.b., and 5 on page 148 of the textbook. Answers
  2. Complete question 12 on page 150 of the textbook. Answer
  3. At the beginning of the lesson, the idea of using polynomials to determine the amount of material required for a project was discussed. You will now use a polynomial to determine the dimenstions of a wall hanging. Complete question 18 on page 151 of the textbook. Answers

glossary

Add the following terms to your copy of Glossary Terms:

  • synthetic division
  • zeros of a polynomial
  • roots of an equation