Solving Higher Polynomials

Higher Degree Polynomials

Finding solutions for higher degree polynomial functions:   ie. y = 4x^3 + 3x^2 + x + 2    

Rational Roots Test

To find the possible solutions to the function, find all possible fractions where the numerator is a factor of the constant, and the denominator a factor of the leading coefficient:   factors of constant __________________________________________________ factors of leading coefficient

Rational Roots Test

4x^3 + 3x^2 + x + 2 Factors of constant: 2, 1 Factors of leading coefficient: 4,2,1  All possible combinations of fraction: 2/4, 2/2, 2/1, 1/4, 1/2, 1/1   So the possible factors of the function (given they can be positive or negative) are: +/- 0.25,   +/- 0.5, +/-  1, +/- 2  

These possible factors can then be tested to find which result in a solution of y=0   *Can find using synthetic division or by substituting the values into the equation.