College Algebra 7th Edition

Published by Brooks Cole
ISBN 10: 1305115546
ISBN 13: 978-1-30511-554-5

Chapter 3, Polynomial and Rational Functions - Section 3.3 - Dividing Polynomials - 3.3 Exercises - Page 310: 58

Answer

The other zeros are: $x=\pm\sqrt2$.

Work Step by Step

The factor theorem says that if $f(c)=0$, then $(x-c)$ is a factor of $f(x)$ and if $(x-c)$ is a factor of $f(x)$, then $f(c)=0$. We check $x=5$: $f(5)=5^3-5(5)^2-2(5)+10=0$ thus, it is indeed a zero. Then, we can write: $f(x)=(x-5)(x^2-2)=(x-5)(x+\sqrt2)(x-\sqrt2)$. where we used the fact that: $(a+b)(a-b)=a^2-b^2$ Thus the other zeros are: $x=\pm\sqrt2$.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.