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Contents
14:01 Polynomials 14:06 Sketching polynomials
14:02 Sum and difference of polynomials GeoGebra activity 14:0 6 Sketching
14:03 Multiplying and dividing polynomials polynomials
by linear expressions Fun spot 14:06 How do you find a missing
14:04 Remainder and factor theorems hairdresser?
14:05 Solving polynomial equations 14:07 Sketching curves related toy= P(x)
GeoGebra activity 14:07 Sketching curves
related toy = P[x)
Maths terms, Diagnostic test, Assignments

Syllabus references (See pages x-xv for details.)

Number and Algebra
Selections from Polynomials [Stage 5.3#]
• Investigate the concept of a polynomial and apply the factor and ren1ainder theore111s to solve problems
(ACMNA266)
• Apply an understanding of polynomials to sketch a range of curves and describe the features of these curves
fron1 their equations (ACMNA268)

Working Mathematically
• Communicating • Problem Solving • Reasoning • Understanding • Fluency
 •

You should be familiar with the terms monomial, binomial and trinomial, which are used
to describe algebraic expressions with one, two and three terms, respectively.
• The name polynomial is used to describe an algebraic expression that is the sum of any
number of terms, where each and every term is of the form axn (and n is a positive integer
or zero).

A polynomial P(x) can be written in the form:

n n- 1 n- 2 2 1 0
P( X) = anx + an _ 1X + an _ 2X + . . . + a2X + al X + aoX
where x is the variable
art' an,_ 1, ... a2, a1, a0 are the coefficients
anxn, is the leading term
n is the degree of the polynomial (only if an * 0) (note that n is the highest power of x)
an is the leading coefficient
0
a0 is the constant term (since x = 1)

1 r 2 x
• Note that expressions such as x + - , x + '\/ x or 2 + x are not
x
polynomials in x, since each term is not a positive integral power of
x or a constant. P(x)
• The notation P(x) is used for polynomials. P(c) refers to the value
of P (x) at x = c.
• If the leading coefficient is 1, the polynomial is said to be manic.
• Linear, quadratic and cubic expressions, which have been met in earlier
chapters, are polyno1nials of degree 1, 2 and 3 respectively.

WORKED EXAMPLE 1
For each polynon1.ial, state the degree, leading coefficient, constant term and number of terms.
5 4 2 2 3
a 3x - 7 x + 2x - 5 b 7 x - 4x + x

Solutions
3 2
a degree= 5 b rearranging in or er: x - x + 7 x
. . d 4
leading coefficient = 3 degree= 3
constant term = -5 leading coefficient = 1 (monic)
number of terms = 4 constant term = 0
number of terms = 3

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 10 Stages 5.1-5.3

WORKED EXAMPLE 2
P(x) is a monic quadratic polynomial with a constant term of -2. If P(2) == 8, find the
polynomial.

Solution
P(x) is quadratic (degree 2),
monic (leading coefficient == 1)
and has a constant term equal to -2.
2
:. P(x) == x + bx - 2
2
Now, P (2) == 2 + b x 2 - 2
:. 8 :=: 2b + 2
:. b :=: 3
2
:. P(x) == x + 3x - 2

II Which expression (A, B or C) in each set is not a polynomial?

A B c
2 1
a x +7x-3 5x + 10 3--
x
2
5x - 7x 3
b +4x 7x
2
c 5 2x + 1 -2x
2 -2 3
4x - x + 3 2
9- x +x 4
d x +x
3
e 9x - x + x 5
9-x 4 5
x + 2x 1

fl Which of the following are monic polynomials?

2 2 5 3
a 2x - x + 7 b x - 3x - 1 c x-x-1
3
d 9x - 4x 4 5
e x + 2x
6
f 6-x-x
2
3
g 5+x +x 6 7 4
h x + 3x + x
2 3
i 4x + 2x + x
4

For each polynomial, state the degree, the leading coefficient and the constant term.
3 2
a 2x + x - x + 3
5 3
b x - x +x- 2
4
c 9x + x
2
6 2
d 5 - 2x e 7x f 5 - 2x + x
2 4 6 . 3 5
g 9- X +X - X h 3 I X - 2x
4 4 2 1
k 5x3 + 3x l x +x +-
2 3 2 5
2
If P(x) == x + x - 3, then P(2) is found by substituting 2 for x. So the value of P(2) == 3.
Similarly, find the value of P (2) if
2 2
a P(x) == 3x - x + 5 b P(x) == 5 - 3x + x
4 2
3 2
c P(x) == x - x + x - 2 d P(x) == x - x + 1
2 4

1' Polynomials
El For each polynomial below, determine the values indicated.
2
a P(x) = 2x - 3x + 4 i P(1) ii P(-2) iii P(O)
3 2
b P(x) = x - 2x + x - 3 i P(O) ii P(10) iii P(-2)
3 6
c P(x) = 6 - x + x i P(2) ii P(S) iii P(-1)

D Expand and simplify the following polynomials and state the degree, leading term and
constant term for each.
2 2 2
a (2x + 3) b (x + 2) - (x + x + 1)
2 2 3 2 2 2
c (x + 3) - (x - 3) d 2x(x - x + 1) + x (x + 2x - 1)
2 2
e (3x - 6x ) f (x + 7)(2x - 3) - (x + 3)(2x - 7)
2
g (x + 1)(x + 2)(x + 3) h (4x + 1)(3x - 1)

II a P(x) is a quadratic polynomial with two terms. It is known that P(O) = 3 and P(1) = 5.
What is the polynomial?
b P (x) is a cubic polynomial with a constant term of zero. If all its coefficients are equal
and P(2) = 28, what is the polynomial?
c A monic cubic polynomial P(x), has a constant term equal to 4. If the polynomial only
has three terms and P(2) = 14, give the possible solutions for P(x) .

PREP QUIZ 14:02

2 3 2 4
A: 3x - x + 5 8: x - 2x C: 6 - x + x
What is the degree of:
1 A 2 B 3 C?
What is the leading coefficient of:
4 A 5 B 6 C?

What is the constant term of:

7 A 8 B 9 C?
10 Which polynomials above are monic?

When adding or subtracting polynomials, simply collect like terms. Remember!

Like termS' will
If we have two polynomials P(x) and Q(x), then the sum J,ave tJ,e S"ame
P(x) + Q(x) will also be a polynomial and the difference de9ree.
P(x) - Q(x) will likewise be a polynomial.

If many terms are involved, the setting out in the worked

examples on the following page may prove helpful.

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 10 Stages 5.1-5.3

WORKED EXAMPLE 1
4 3 4 3 2
If P(x) == 5x + 2x - x + 7 and Q(x) == 2x - x + 3x - 1, find:
a P(x) + Q(x) b P(x) - Q(x)

Solutions
4 3 4 3
a Sx + 2x - x+7 b Sx + 2x - x+7
4
2x -
3
x + 3x
2
- 1
+ 4 3
2x - x +3x2
-1 -
4 3 2 4 3 2
7 x + x + 3x - x+6 3x + 3x - 3x - x+8
4 3 2 4 3 2
:. P(x) + Q(x) == 7x + x + 3x - x+6 :. P(x) - Q(x) == 3x + 3x - 3x - x+ 8

WORKED EXAMPLE 2
3 2 3 2
If A(x) == x - x + x - 2 and B(x) == x + x - x + 1, determine the degree and leading term of:
a A(x) + B(x) b A(x) - B(x)
The process shown in Worked Example 1 can be done mentally.

Solutions
a A(x) + B(x) b A(x) - B(x)
3 2 3 2 3 2 3 2
== (x - x + x - 2) + (x + x - x + 1) == (x - x + x - 2) - (x + x - x + 1)
3 3 2 3 2
== 2x - 1 :=: x - x + x - 2 - x - x + x - 1)
2
The degree of A(x) + B(x) is 3 and the == - 2x + 2x - 3
3
leading term is 2x . The degree of A(x) - B(x) is 2 and the
2
leading term is -2x .

D 3 2 2
If P(x) == x + 2x - 4x + 1, Q(x) == x + 3x - 2 and R(x) == x + 3x - 1, determine each 3

of the following.
a P(x) + Q(x) b P(x) + R(x) c Q(x) + R(x)
d P(x) - Q(x) e P(x) - R(x) f Q(x) - R(x)
g R(x) - P(x) h P(x) + Q(x) + R(x) i P(x) + Q(x) - R(x)
j P(x) - Q(x) + R(x) k P(x) - Q(x) - R(x) l R(x) + Q(x) - P(x)

fl Simplify the fallowing.

2 3 2
a (5x - 2x + 7) + (x - 5x - x + 3)
3 2 3 2
b (x - x + x + 1) + (x + x - x - 1)
4 2 4 3
c (2x + x - 1) + (x - x + x + 1)
4 3 2 3 2
d (x - 2x + 3x - 4x + 5) + (5x - x + 7x - 3)
3 2 2 3
e (2x + 3x - 5x + 1) + (6 - 2x + 3x - x )
2 2
f (4x -x+3)-(3x +x+1)
3 2 3 2
g (2x + x + 5x - 7) - (x - 2x + 5x + 4)

1' Polynomials
 4 3 4 2
h (9x +x +2x-3)-(5x +7x -2x+3)
2 2 2
i (5x + 7x + 1) + (2x + x - 3) + (x - 10x + 7)
3 2 3 2
j (x - x + 3) + (x - 3x + 4) + (2x - x + 5)
4 3 2 3 4 2
k (x + x + x - x - 1) + (2x - x + 5) - (x + 2x - 7)
5 3 2 4 3 5 4 2
l (4x + x - 2x + 7x) - (x + 2x - 7) + (2x - x + 3x + 5)
El For each of the following, state the degree of A(x) + B(x) and its leading term.
3 2 2
a A(x) = x + x - x + 1 B(x) = x - 2x + 7
4 4 2
b A(x)=2x +1 B(x)=2x +3x -7
3 2 4 3 2
c A(x) = 3x - 2x + x B(x) = 5x - 3x + 2x + 7
2
d A(x)=7x+1 B(x)=3x +7x+1
5 3 3
e A(x) = 2x - x + x B(x) = 4x + 2x - 1
2 2
f A(x) = 7 + 3x - x B(x) = x - 2x - 7
What can be said about the degrees of A(x), B(x) and A(x) + B(x)?
B For each pair of polynomials A(x) and B(x) in Question 3, determine the degree
of A(x) - B(x).What can be said about the degrees of A(x), B(x) and A(x) - B(x)?
II a P(x) =x 3 2
+ x - x + 1 and Q(x) = x + 2x + 3.
2

Determine A(x) and B(x) if A(x) = P(x) + Q(x) and B(x) = P(x) - Q(x).
b Evaluate A(2), B(2), P(2) and Q(2).
c Evaluate A(-1), B(-1), P(-1) and Q(-1).

Yov s-Jiovld
notice ttiis- If A(x) = P(x) ± O(x), then for any
relations-Jiip. x-value,a,A[a] =P(a) ±O(a).

• • • • •

• •

A linear expression is of the form ax + b, where a and b are constants. It is a polynomial

of degree 1.

Multiplication
To multiply polynomials by a linear expression, we extend the procedure used in binomial
•
expansions.

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 10 Stages 5.1-5.3

 WORKED EXAMPLES
3 2
Expand and simplify (x + 5)(x + 2x - x + 1).

Solution
3 2 3 2 3 2
(x + S)(x + 2x - x + 1) = x(x + 2x - x + 1) + 5(x + 2x - x + 1)
4 3 2 3 2 -
= x + 2x - x + x + 5x + 10x - :,x + 5
4 3 2
=x +7x +9x -4x+5

Division
When dividing a polynomial by another polynomial, familiar.
a process is used that is similar to that known as
'long division' for integers.

This is shown to the right for the case 9736 + 27.

9736 is the dividend 360
2?)9?36
27 is the divisor 81.
360 is the quotient 163
162
16 is the remainder 16
0
Note that: 16
Dividend = quotient X divisor + remainder :. 9736 = 360 x 27 + 16
These terms are also used in polynonual division.

WORKED EXAMPLES
2
Find the quotient and remainder when 2x + 5x - 7 is divided by x + 2.

Solution
• At each step, we simply divide leading terms.
2
2x + x = 2x 2x+ 1
2
x + 2)2x + 5x - 7 Bring down
• Then multiply (x + 2)
2
2x + 4x t next term.
by 2x and subtract. x-7
• Now, repeat the above procedure, x+2
this time dividing (x - 7) by (x + 2). -9

So the quotient for this division is 2x + 1 and the remainder is -9.

Note:
• The procedure is an iterative one: divide, ni_ultiply, subtract, divide, 1nultiply, subtract ... until
the division process can no longer be carried out.
• The degree of the remainder must always be less than the degree of the divisor.
• If one polynomial is exactly divisible by another, the re1nainder will be zero. Thus, the divisor
and quotient will be factors of the dividend.

1' Polynomials
WORKED EXAMPLES
2
x + 10x + 49
3 2
x - 5)x + 5x - x + 7 .. d 3 b . 2
• D 1v1 ex y x; write x on top.
3 2 2
x -5x • Multiply (x - 5) by x and subtract.
2 2
10x - x • Divide 1Ox by x; write 1Ox on top.
2
10x - 50x •Multiply (x - 5) by 10x and subtract.
v
49x+ 7 • Divide 49x by x; write 49 on top. 0
0
49x - 245 • Multiply (x - 5) by 49 and subtract.
252
I )ee wJ,,at'> 9oi"9 Of).
The result of this division may be written in the following way.
3 2 2 Very clever!
x + 5x - x + 7 = (x - 5)(x + 10x + 49) + 252
dividend = divisor X quotient + ren1ainder

Expand and simplify the following.

2 2 2
a (x+2)(x +3x+1) b (x+4)(x -2x+3) c (x-2)(x +5x-4)
2 3 3 2
d (2x-1)(x -2x+5) e (3x-2)(x -x+1) f (5-x)(x -2x +1)

fl Check that the following are true using multiplication.

2 3
x -2x-3 x -3x+ 2 2
a =x-3 b - - - - = x - 2 x+ 1
x+l x+2
EJ a If P(x) is of degree 3, what is the degree of (x - 3) x P(x)?
b If P(x) is of degree 3, what is the degree of Q(x) if Q(x) = P(x) ?
x-3
B 3 2
a If P(x) = x + 2x + x - 1 and Q(x) = x + 4,
find R(x) if R(x) = P(x). Q(x). A dot is sometimes
b Evaluate P(1), Q(1) and R(1). used for multiplication.
c Evaluate P(-2), Q(-2) and R(-2) .
d What relationship exists between P(a), Q(a) and R(a)?
Complete the following divisions, expressing each result in the form
dividend = divisor X quotient + remainder.
2 2
a (x + 2x - 3) + (x + 1) b (x - 5x + 1) + (x - 3)
2 2
c (3x + x - 2) + (x + 3) d (2x - 4x + 3) + (x - 5)
3 2 3
e (x + 2x + x - 7) + (x + 1) f (3x - 2x + 6) + (x - 3)
3 2 3
g (2x - x + x - 1) + (x - 2) h (3x + 2x - 5) + (x - 1)

II Determine the quotient and remainder for the following divisions.

2 3 2
a (6x - x + 2) + (x - 3) b (x - 2x + x + 1) + (x + 2)
3 2 3 2
c (2x - x + 3x + 3) + (2x + 1) d (6x - 5x - 8x + 3) + (2x - 3)
5 4 3 2 6 4 2
e (x - x + 2x - x + x + 3) + (x + 1) f (2x + 2x - 3x + 4) + (x - 1)

II Show that the remainder is zero in each of the following, and hence write the dividend
as the product of two factors.
3 2 3 2
a (x + 2x + 3x + 2) + (x + 1) b (2x - 3x + 4x + 3) + (2x + 1)
3 2 3 2
c (2x - 3x + 1) + (x - 1) d (2x + x + 1) + (x + 1)

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 10 Stages 5.1-5.3

 •

• In the last section, it was seen that if P (x) is divided by (x - a), the result can be expressed
in the form:

P(x) == (x - a) Q(x) + r
O(x)
where Q(x) is the quotient and
x - a) P(x) • dividend
r is the remainder. / .
divisor •

Now, if we let x equal a in this •

statement, it becomes: r
P(a) == (a - a) Q(a) + r P(x) = (x-a) O(x) + r
== 0 X Q(a) + r
:. P(a) == r

• If a given polynomial P(x) is divided by (x - a),

then the remainder will be P(a), which is the
value of P(x) when a is substituted for x.
This is called the remainder theorem.

Remainder theorem : If a given polynomial P(x) is divided

by (x - a), then the remainder is P(a) .

• From the remainder theorem, it can be

seen that if r == 0 then P(x) == (x - a) Q(x).
This means that (x - a) is a factor of P(x),
and leads to the factor theorem.
Note: 'if and only if' means that the
statement is also true in reverse, that is:
Factor theorem:
• If (x-a) divides P(x), then P(a) = 0.
(x - a) divides P(x) if and only if P(a) == 0.
• If P( a) = 0, then (x - a) divides P(x).

WORKED EXAMPLE 1
3 2
Determine the remainder when x - 2x + x - 1 is divided by x - 2.
3 2
Is x - 2 a factor of x - 2x + x - 1?

Solution
Divisor is x - 2, so remainder r == P(2).
3 2
Let P(x) == x - 2x + x - 1
3 2
:. P(2) == 2 - 2(2) + 2 - 1
==8-8+2-1
== 1
.·. Remainder == 1
x - 2 is not a factor because the remainder is not zero.

1' Polynomials
WORKED EXAMPLE 2
3 2
Show that x - 3 is a factor of P(x) == x - 2x - Sx + 6, and hence express P(x) as a product
of its factors.

Solution
If (x - 3) is a factor of P(x), then P(3) will equal zero.
3 2
Now P(3) == (3) - 2(3) - 5(3) + 6
== 27 - 18 - 15 + 6
== 0 2
x + x -2
:. (x - 3) must be a factor of P(x). 3 2
x - 3)x - 2x - Sx + 6
If P(x) is now divided by x - 3, this will enable the 3 2
x -3x
2
other factors to be found. x -Sx
2
2 x -3x
:. P(x) == (x - 3)(x + x - 2)
-2x+ 6
2
Further factorising x + x - 2 gives: -2x+ 6
:. P(x) == (x - 3)(x - 1)(x + 2) 0

WORKED EXAMPLE 3
3
Iff (x) == x + ax + bis divisible by both x + 2 and x - 3, find the values of a and b.

Solution
3
Iff (x) == x + ax +bis divisible by x + 2 and x - 3,
ThiS' is- really a
thenf(-2) == 0 and f (3) == 0
3 3 S'irnvltaneovS' eqvationS'
(-2) + a(-2) + b == 0 (3) + a(3) + b == 0
qves-tion in dis-9vis-e.
-8 - 2a + b == 0 27 + 3a + b == 0
2a - b == -8 3a + b == -27

Solving simultaneously: 2a - b == -8
+
3a + b == -27
Sa == -35
•
• • a== -7
b == -6
The values of a and bare a== -7, b == -6.
3
:.f(x)==x -7x-6

D Use the remainder theore1n to find the remainder for the following divisions.
Check your answer by carrying out the division.
2 2
a (x +7x-5)+(x-1) b (x -3x-10)+(x+2)
2 2
c (2x + 3x + 7) + (x + 1) d (Sx + 4x - 10) + (x - 2)
3 2 4 2
e (x -3x +7x-5)+(x-3) f (x +5x -6)+(x-1)

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 10 Stages 5.1-5.3

 Find the remainder for each division when P(x) is divided by A(x).
2 2
a P(x) = x + 5x + 7, A(x) = x - 1 b P(x) = x - 2x - 9, A(x) = x +4
2 2
c P(x) = 2x + x - 11, A(x) = x - 3 d P(x) = 3x - 4x + 1, A(x) = x +3
3 3 2
e P(x) = 2x + 7x - 13, A(x) = x - 1 f P(x) = 5x + x - 4x, A(x) = x - 2
4 2 5 3 2
g P(x)=x -x +1, A(x)=x-2 h P(x)=x -x +4x +7, A(x) = x +2
2
IJ 4 3
Determine the remainder when x + 2x - 5x - 7 x + 2 is divided by:
a (x+1) b (x-1) c (x-3) d (x+3)
2
B a If x
3
4x - 7x + k is divided by (x - 4), the remainder is 2. Find the value of k.
-
4 2
b When x - 3kx + 5k is divided by (x + 1), the remainder is 5. Find the value of k.
2
c When x + x - 1 is divided by (x - k), the remainder is 5. Find all possible values of k.
Find whether each polynomial P(x) has the linear polynomial indicated as a factor.
2 2
a P(x) = x + 7x - 18; x + 9 b P(x) = 5x - 9x - 2; x + 2
3 3 2
c P(x) = x + x - 2; x + 1 d P(x) = x - 2x + 1; x - 1
3 2 3 2
e P(x)=2x +3x -1;x+1 f P(x)=x -x -10x-8;x+2

D Show that the first polynomial is a factor of P(x) and then determine all the factors of P(x).
3 2 3 2
a x-1,P(x)=x +4x +x-6 b x+1,P(x)=x -6x +5x+12
3 2 3 2
c x + 1, P(x) = x + 4x + 5x + 2 d x - 2, P(x) = x - 5x + 8x - 4
Determine the factors of the following polynomials.
3 2 3 2 3 2
a x - 2x - 5x + 6 b x - 6x - 13x + 42 c x - 4x + x + 6
3 3 2 2 3
d x - 21x + 20 e x + 4x - 15x - 18 f 2+3x-14x -15x

D For what value of k is:

2 2
a x - 1 a factor of x - 5x + k b x + 2 a factor of 2x - x + k
2 2
c x + 1 a factor of x + kx - 7 d x - 4 a factor of 3x - kx - 32?
2
II 3
If (x + 1) and (x + 2) are both factors of x + ax +bx - 10, find the values of a and b.

Im 3
If x + px + q is divisible by both x - 3 and x + 2, find the values of p and q.

• •

• A polynomial P(x) can take many values. The values of x that make P(x) zero are called,
appropriately enough, zeros. These zeros must also be the solutions to the equation P(x) = 0.
The solutions to equations are often called the roots of the equation.
• The factor theorem is the basis for solving equations of the form P(x) = 0.
• If a polynomial is of degree n, it can have at most n factors,
i.e anxn +an_ 1Xn- l + ... + alx + ao = (x - lX1)(x - lX2)(x - CY3) ... (x - an)

n factors
This means that a polynomial of degree n can have a maximum of n zeros and that the equation
P(x) = 0 can have a maximum of n solutions (or roots).

1' Polynomials
The following example shows the steps involved in solving equations of this type.

WORKED EXAMPLE
3 2
Solve the equation x - x - 10x - 8 = 0.

Solution
Step 1 Find a value of x for which P(x) :=: 0 Step 2 Use the factor theorem.
3 2
Let P(x) =x - x - 10x - 8 = 0 Since P(-1) = 0, then x + 1
is a factor.
The values of x to try are the factors
of the constant term, -8, namely Step 3 Divide P(x) by the factor.
{ 1, -1, 2, -2, 4, -4, 8, -8}. 2
x - 2x- 8
3 2
Starting with the smallest value, we x + 1)x - x - 10x - 8
use trial and error to find one that x3 + x2
2
makes P(x) equal zero. -2x - 10x
2
-2x - 2x
Now P (1) = 1 - 1 - 10 - 8 "# 0
-8x-8
but P(-1) = -1 - 1+10 - 8 = 0.
-8x-8
0
If abc = 0
t"1en a = 0 or
b = 0 or c = 0.

Step 4 Write P(x) as a product of its factors. Step 5 Write the solutions.
3 2 2 3 2
x - x - 10x - 8 :=: (x + 1)(x + 2x - 8) x - x - 1Ox - 8 = 0
:=: (x + 1)(x + 2)(x - 4) :. (x+1)(x+2)(x-4)=0
:. x :=: -1, -2 or 4

3 2
The first step in solving the equation x - 2x - 11 x + 12 :=: 0 is to find a value of x that
solves the equation. What values of x should be tried?

lfl You have found that x :=: 3 is a solution to the equation x 3

- 2x 2
- 11x + 12 :=: 0. How do you
3 2
use this to factorise x - 2x - 11x + 12?
El Factorise:
2 2
a x - x - 12 b 2x - 5x + 2
Solve:
2
a (x-3)(x-2)(x+1)=0 b (x + 1)(x - 4) :=: 0
2 2
c (2x - 1)(x + 4)(x - 1)(x + 2) :=: 0 d (x - 2) (x + 3) :=: 0

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 10 Stages 5.1-5.3

 Factorise completely and solve:
2 2
a (x - 2) (x - 2x - 8) = 0 b (p + 3)(2p + Sp - 3) = 0
3 2 3 2
c (x - l)(x + 4x + x - 6) = 0 d (p + 2)(2p - p - 13p - 6) = 0
D 4 3
These questions refer to the equation 2x - 7x - 2x + 13x + 6 == 0.
2

a Show that x = -1 is a solution.

4 3 2
b If Q(x) = (2x - 7x - 2x + 13x + 6) + (x + 1), find Q(x).
c Show that x - 2 is a factor of Q(x).
4 3 2
d Write 2x - 7 x - 2x + 13x + 6 as a product of its linear factors.
4 3 2
e Using your answer to d, write the roots of the equation 2x - 7x - 2x + 13x + 6 = 0.
Find all real roots of these equations.
3 2 3 2
a x - 4x + x + 6 = 0 b x + 3x + 7 x + 10 = 0
3 2 3 2
c x -x -x+1=0 d x + 2x - 9x - 18 = 0
3 2 3 2
e x - 3x + 3x - 1 = 0 f x + 2x + 4x + 21 = 0

El a Solve the equation x 4 3

4x - 7x + 22x + 24 = 0.
-
2
2
b Solve the equation y (y - 3) = 6y - 8.
c A box is to have a square base and a height that is 10 cm longer than the length of the base.
3
If the volume of the box is to be 2000 cm , write a polynomial equation to represent this
information and, by solving the equation, find the dimensions of the box .

• •

PREP OUIZ 14:06

What is the degree of these polynomials?
2 3
1 2x - 3 2 x + Sx - 6 3 4x - 10

4 Expand x(x - l)(x + 2).

5 What are the zeros of the polynomial x(x - 1) (x + 2)?

6 Where will the curve y = x(x - 1)(x + 2) cut the x-axis?

7 What is the y-intercept of the curve y = x(x - 1) (x + 2)? Polynomials

3 2 Linear: degree 1
8 Is x - 1 a factor of x + 2x - 3?
Quadratic: degree 2
9 If x = 1 OOO OOO, which term of the polynomial Cubic: degree 3
4 3 2
x + 1OOx + 1000x + 1 OOO OOO has the greatest value?
3 2
10 For the polyno1nial y = x - 2x + x - 6, which term will
have the biggest influence on the value of y when x is large?

•The definition of a polynomial in Section 14:01 reminds us that linear, quadratic and cubic
expressions are in fact all polynomials. Hence, we already know how to sketch a considerable
number of polynomials.
The curves sketched in Exercises 7:04-7:05 and 7:09-7:12 are polynomials, and all of the
techniques learnt there are applicable in this section of work.

1' Polynomials
• The x-and y-intercepts are important in sketching any curve.
As x-intercepts occur when y == 0, the x-intercepts of y == P(x) are the roots of the equation
P(x) == 0. The y-intercept occurs when x == 0. So for y == P(x), they-intercept is P(O).
P(O) is the constant term of the polynomial, so the y-intercept is the constant term of P(x).
• Polynomials are examples of continuous Junctions.
A is-
This means they have no gaps. Polynomials can have
c 0 nti I) vOvf...
any x-value from negative infinity (-oo) to positive
infinity (+oo), and every x-value has a corresponding
y-value.
• Questions 9 and 10 in the Prep quiz illustrate that as
x becomes very large or very small (i.e. as x approaches
positive or negative infinity), the sign of P(x) is the y y
same as the sign of the leading term, axn.
x x
For the polynomial y == P(x), as x ±oo, P(x) axn
B A

• In this section we will consider only the graphs of polynomials that can be factorised.
• We will now see how we use these ideas in conjunction with what we have learnt in
Chapter 7 to sketch the graphs of polynomials.

WORKED EXAMPLE 1
Sketch the graph of the polynomial y == x(x + 1)(x - 2)(x + 3).
•When y == 0, A y B y
x(x + 1)(x - 2)(x + 3) == 0
:. x==0,-1,2,-3
The curve has 4 x-intercepts.
1 x x
• As the curve is continuous,
there are only two possible
shapes, i.e A or B.

Different factors produce

different x-intercepts. Don'tf or9etto
vS"e the s-i9n Cha rt
• If the polynomial were expanded it would be of to Check the S"hape.
4
degree 4, with a leading term of x .As x + oo
4
it will become like x . Hence, sketch A is correct.

-1 1
x -4 -3 -2 --
2 0 1 2 3
y (+) 0 (-) 0 (+) 0 (-) 0 (+)

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 10 Stages 5.1-5.3

WORKED EXAMPLE 2
2 2
Sketch the graph of the polynomial: y = (x - 2) (x + 2) Don't forget to check the
• If this were expanded, it would be of degree 4 with y-intercept. When x = 0, y = 16.
4
leading term x .
• It has only two x-intercepts, namely at x = 2 and -2. y
Each of these is said to be a double root.
• A sign analysis, they-intercept and an analysis of the leading
term as x ±oo will confirm the shape of the curve.

x -3 -2 0 2 3 x
-2 2
y (+) 0 (+) 0 (+)

WORKED EXAMPLE 3
3 y
Sketch the graph of the polynomial: y = -(x + 1)(2x - 5)
4
• If expanded it would be of degree 4 with leading term -x .
!.
• It has only two x-intercepts, at -1 and 2 The polynomial
has a single root at x = -1 and a triple root at x = 2 !.
The triple root has the effect of turning the curve over, 1 x
as shown in the sketch.
• Sign analysis and the y-intercept will
s-19nS' 15' eas-y.
• •
confirm the rest of the shape.
If x = 3,
3
y=-(3+1)(6-5)
3
=-(4)(1)
=-4

WORKED EXAMPLE 4
4 3 2
Sketch the graph of the polynomial: y = -x + 2x + x - 2x
4 3 2
• First, we need to factorise -x + 2x + x - 2x.
4 3 2 3 2
-x + 2x + x - 2x = -x(x - 2x - x + 2)
3 2
Using the factor theorem on (x - 2x - x + 2) shows that x - 1 is a factor.
2
Dividing gives y = -x(x - 1)(x - x - 2)
:. y = -x(x - l)(x - 2)(x + 1) y
:. The polynomial has 4 single roots: 0, 1, 2 and -1.
4
• The leading term is -x , so y behaves
4
like -x as x +oo.
As x +oo,y -oo. x
Hence, the sketch is as shown.

1' Polynomials
 • When sketching y == P (x), the nature of the roots will control the shape of the curve.
y y

x
x

single roots single root double roots

y
double root

triple root

• If the degree of the polynomial is odd, the arrows on the ends of the curve will point
in opposite directions. y
)'

x
x

• If the degree of the polynomial is even, the arrows on the ends of the curve will point
in the sani_e direction.
y y

x x

D The following polynomials are given in factored form. Determine their zeros and sketch their
graphs, indicating clearly where they cut the x-axis.
a y==(x+l)(x-3) b y==2x(x-5)
c y== x(x+ l)(x-1) d y== (x-2)(x-1)(x+ 1)
e y==(x+4)(x+1)(x-2) f y==x(x-3)(x+5)
g y==-x(x+2)(x-1) h y==(3-x)(x+1)(x+2)
i 11==(x-2)(x+1)(1-x) j y==(2-x)(x+1)(x+4)
k y==x(x+2)(x+1)(x-3) L y==(x+3)(x+1)(x-1)(3-x)

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 10 Stages 5.1-5.3

 fl Each polynomial has a repeated root. Sketch the graph of each neatly.
2 2 2
a y = (x - 1) b y = -(x + 2) c y = x(x + 2)
2 2 2
d y = (x + 1)(x - 2) e y = (x + 3) (x - 1) f y = -x(x - 1)
2 3 2
g y = x (5 - x) h y = (x + 3) i y = - (x + 3)(x - 5)
3 2 3
j y=(5-x) k y=x(x+1)(x-2) l y=(x+1)(x-2)
EJ Use the factor theorem to factorise the following and hence sketch their graphs,
showing clearly the zeros of each polyno1nial.
3 2 3 2
a y = x + 4x + x - 6 b y = x + 6x + 11x + 6
3 2 3 2
c y = x - 6x + 5x + 12 d y = x - 5x + 8x - 4
3 2 3 2
e y = x + 8x + 17 x + 10 f y = x - 3x + 3x - 1
3 2 3 2
g y = -x + 2x + 5x - 6 h y = -x + 4x - x - 6
. 4 2 .
I y=x-17x+16 J. y=x4 -x3 - 10x 2 - 8 x

Write an equation that could represent each of the following and sketch the curve.
a P(x) is of degree 3 and has a double root at 2 and a single root at -1. It has a negative
•

y-1ntercept.
b The polynomial y = P(x) has a double root at -2 and a triple root at 1. It is of degree 5
5
with a leading term of -2x .
c The polynomial is quartic (of degree 4). It has roots at -3, -1 and 4 and a positive
.
y-1ntercept. Th 1 d . . . h 4
e ea 1ng term 1s eit er x or -x .4

d The polynomial is quartic (of degree 4). It has roots at - 3, -1 and 4 and a negative
.
y-1ntercept. Th 1 d. . . h 4
e ea 1ng term 1s eit er x or -x .4

Can a cubic equation have no roots? Give examples of cubic equations that have 1, 2 and
3 roots.

D A polynomial is monic and of degree 5. It has two double roots and a single root. Sketch the
possible shapes of this polynomial.

II GEOGEBRA ACTIVITY 14:06 SKETCHING POLYNOMIALS

In this activity you can study the graphs 4

of different polynomials given in factored

form and investigate the effect that repeated
2
factors have on the shape. You can then test
your skills by seeing if you can predict the
equation of a randomly generated curve. -4 -2 0 2

Another activity allows you to choose a

polynomial that has an equation that is
not in factored for1n.You will need to y 0.1 (x - 3) {x - 1) (x + 1) (x + 3)
factorise it and sketch the curve in your
workbook.You can then tick a checkbox
to see the solution.

1' Polynomials
 HOW DO YOU FIND A MISSING HAIRDRESSER?
Answer each question and write the letter for that part in the box that is above the correct answer.
3 2
Consider the polynomial P(x) = x - 2x - x + 2.
E What is the degree? N What is the leading coefficient?
A What is the constant term? 0 Evaluate P(1).
0

Y What is the remainder when P(x) is divided by x + 2?

2 2
For the circle (x - 2) + (y - 3) = 16)find:
B the radius I the coordinates of the centre.
2 2
For the circle (x + 2) + (y + 3) = 25)find:
A the radius E the coordinates of the centre.
3
M What is the y-intercept of the curve y = x + 8?
3
E Find a if the curve y = ax - 5 passes through the point (1, 10).
2
T Find kif the curve y = k(x + 1)(x - 1)(x - 2) passes through (3, -16).
What would be the equation of the curve that is obtained if y == x is translated: 3

H up 1 unit 0 down 1 unit E 1 unit to the right R 1 unit to the left?

Solve the equations:
T (x-1)(x+2)(x-3)=0 U (x+1)(x-2)(x+3)=0
3 2 3 2
R x - 2x - x + 2 = 0 C x + 2x - x - 2 = 0

N (<) 0 N 00 (<) ('(') (<) ......--... ('(') L(') N N ......--...

......--... (<) ......--... (<)
I I " I I + N
" "
I
I " N
"
('(') N I ('(') I I .....__.., + "
N
"
" " " I
N .....__.., .....__.., I .....__..,
II I I 11
11 11

--

Usingy = P(x) to sketchy= P(x) + c

11
In Chapter 7 we saw how y = ax + d was obtained by moving the curve y = axn vertically
by d units.
The tables below show that the same results hold for the curves y = P(x) +candy= P(x).
Clearly, y = P(x) + c is obtained by moving y = P(x) vertically c units.
y = P(x) y = P(x) + c

x -2 -1 0 1 2 x -2 -1 0 1 2
y P(-2) P(-1) P(O) P(l) P(2) y P(-2) + c P(-1) + c P(O) + c P(1) + c P(2) + c

The tables show that if c is added to each of they-values in the table for y = P(x), the values in the
table for y = P(x) +care obtained.

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 10 Stages 5.1-5.3

If y == P (x) is translated vertically by c units, it produces the curve y == P (x) + c.

}'

y = P(x)

c
y = P[x) + c is obtained by translating
the curve y = P(x) vertically by c units.
• If c is positive it moves up.
x • If c is negative it moves down.
y = P(x) + c c

Using y = P(x) to sketchy= -P(x)

y == P(x) y == -P(x)

x -2 -1 0 1 2 x -2 -1 0 1 2
y P(-2) P(-1) P(O) P(1) P(2) y -P(-2) -P(-1) -P(O) -P(1) -P(2)

The tables show that the curves have the same x-values but opposite y-values. Hence, to obtain
the curve y == -P(x) y == P(x), simply replace all the y-values in the table for y == P(x) with
their opposites.
Now, by keeping the x-values the same and changing they-values to their opposites, we are in
fact producing a curve that is the reflection of the first curve in the x-axis.

y = -P(x) 8 y = P(x) y = -P[x) is obtained by reflecting

the curve y = P[x) in the x-axis.

TJie evidence s-v99es-ts- tJiat;

• wJien P(x) is- pos-itive, tJien
-4 4 x
-P(x) is- ne9ative.
• wJien P(x) is- ne9ative, tJien
-4 -P(x} is- pos-itive.
• wJien P(x) = 0, tJien -P(x) = 0.
oo

1' Polynomials
Usingy = P(x) to sketchy= aP(x)
y = P(x) y = aP(x)

x -2 -1 0 1 2 x -2 -1 0 1 2

y P(-2) P(-1) P(O) P(l) P(2) y aP(-2) aP(-1) aP(O) aP(l) aP(2)

To obtain the values for y = aP(x) from the values for y = P(x), we simply multiply all the
y-values by a.

The size and sign of a are both i1nportant in determining the shape of y = aP(x).

For positive a:

If a> 1, y = aP(x) is obtained by stretching y = P(x) vertically.

If a < 1, y = aP (x) is obtained by squashing y = P (x) vertically.
If y = 0 on y = P(x), then y = 0 on y = aP(x).

You meal) they

J' = P(x} al)d
}' both the
y = aP(x} have the
atthe
place.
_,,

y = P(x)

y = 2P(x)

For negative a:
If a< -1, y = aP(x) is obtained by reflecting y = P(x) in the x-axis and then stretching it vertically.
If -1 < a< 0, (i.e. a is a negative fraction), y = aP(x) is obtained by reflecting y = P(x) and then
squashing it vertically.
Y y = -2P(x)

y- P(x)

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 10 Stages 5.1-5.3

Using y = P(x) to sketchy= P(-x)
The table for y = P(x) is shown on the right. Table 1 y = P(x)
Consider y = P(-x). -2 -1 0 2
x 1
As x and -x are opposites, swapping each x-value P(-2) P(-1)
y P(O) P(1) P(2)
in Table 1 with its opposite (-x) (i.e. -2 with 2,
-1with1, 1 with -1 and 2 with -2) will give Table 2 y = P(-x)
you the values in Table 2.
x 2 1 0 -1 -2
Rearranging the values in Table 2, so that the
x-values are in ascending order, produces Table 3, y P(-2) P(-1) P(O) P(1) P(2)
which is the table for y = P(-x).
Table 3 y = P(-x)
Hence, the points on y = P(-x) can be obtained
by moving each point on y = P(x) horizontally x -2 -1 0 1 2
from one side of the y- axis to an equal distance y P(2) P(l) P(O) P(-1) P(-2)
on the other side.
Geometrically, this means that y = P(-x) can
be obtained by reflecting y = P(x) in the y-axis.
The diagram below shows this procedure.
y
(-2, 2) (2, 2)

(-3, 1·5) ____ (3, 1·5)

(- 1, 1·3)
y = P[-x) is obtained
by reflecting the curve
(-4, 0) (- 1, 0) (1, 0) (4, 0)
y = P[x) in the y-axis.
-4 -3 -2 -1 2 3 x
1 1 1 1
y = P(-x) (- 2 , - 2) (2 ' - 2 ) y = P(x)

WORKED EXAMPLES
Use this graph of y = P(x) to make sketch graphs of
y
1 y = P(x) +1 6
2 y = P(x) - 2
4 In each dia9ram,
3 y = -!-P(x)
-1--- ---!·---'

y = P(x) is-
-
. .

4 y = -P(x) . .
s-J-..own in
2
purple.
5 y = P(-x) . .

6 y= 1- -t P(-x) 2 4 x

-2

._ _ _,,__ -4

1' Polynomials
 Solutions
y
1 2 6

t --
-4 I---+ 4

2 2

2 4 x 2 2 4 x

-2 - -2

t
-4 -4

y = P(x) + 1 is obtained by moving y = P(x) - 2 is obtained by moving

each point on y = P(x) up 1 unit. each point on y = P(x) down 2 units.
y )I
3 4
6 6

t
4 4
t l
2 2

2 4 x 2 2 4 x

-2 -2

t
-4 -4

y = -!P(x) is obtained by halving the y = -P(x) is the reflection of y = P(x)

y-coordinate of each point on y = P(x). in the x- axis.
5 y 6 y
6

4 1-- 4 1--

2 2 1---4..

t
'"

x ' 2 4 x

-2 -2
I
T
-4 -4

y = P(-x) is the reflection of y = P(x) !

y = 1 - P(-x) is built from y = P(x) in
in the y-axis. stages. P (x) is reflected in the y-axis and
then the x-axis to give -P(-x). This is
then halved and moved up 1 unit.

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 10 Stages 5.1-5.3

D Use the graph of y = P(x) shown to sketch: y
a y = P(x) + 1 4

b y = P(x) - 2 3
c y = !P(x) 2

d y = 2P(x)
e y = -P(x)
-3 -2 -1 0 1 2 4 x
f y = P(-x) -- -1
-2
-3
,___________ -4

fl Use the graph of y = H(x) shown to sketch: y

a y = H(x) + 1 4
b y = H(x) - 1
3
c y=!H(x)
d y = 2H(x) 2--
e y = -H(x)
f y = H(-x)
1 2 3 5 x
-- 1

-2 1-- 1 - 1 ; - . , - - - i

IEJ Use the graph of y = Q(x) shown to sketch: y

a y = Q(x) + 1 4
b y = Q(x) - 1
3
c r=!Q(x)
d y = 2Q(x)
e y = -Q(x) -- 1
f y = Q(-x)
2 -1 1 x
-1

B Make a sketch of the polynomial y = x(x - l)(x + 2). Use this sketch to 1nake sketches of
a r=!x(x-1)(x+2) b y=2x(x-1)(x+2)
c y=-!x(x-1)(x+2) d y=-2x(x-1)(x+2)

1' Polynomials
 II The polynomial y = P(x) is shown in the diagram. y
a Sketchy= -P(x) and then use this to produce
a sketch of y = 1 - P(x). 2

b Sketchy= P(-x) and then use this to produce

a sketch of y = P(-x) + 1.

-1 0 1 2 x

-+------+--+ -1

DI Using the sketch of y = H(x) in Question 2, make sketches of:

a r=!H(x)-1 b r=!H(-x) c y=2-H(x)
2 3
If P(x) = (x - 3) (x + 1) , sketch:
a y = P(x) b y = P(-x) c y = -P(x)
d y = 1 - P(x) e y = P(-x) + 1

II GEOGEBRA ACTIVITY 14:07 SKETCHING CURVES RELATED TO y =P(x)

In this activity you can use sliders to create I
I 'I
I
I I

the polynomial y = P(x). Use a checkbox to I I

I
I
I
I
I
I

I
- -----r---- ----T----- -r------,-----,
compare its graph with the graphs of y = aP(x), I I I I

: Y:= P(x): I

y = P(x) + c, y = P(-x) or y = -P(x).

I
I
I I
I I

__y:_ _
I

--r-- _ ,
I

I I
I I
I I 1
I
I Yi-P(x)+c :
I I

I
•

I
y I
ID= -
I
I I
I I
I I

I p: y:- p ( -:X)
I
-------r----- - -----.--- ' I
. --------,-
I

A time for
reflection.

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 10 Stages 5.1-5.3

MATHS TERMS 14
•
constant term mon1c
• the term in a polynomial that does not • a polynomial that has a leading
change in value as the variable changes, coefficient of 1
2
e.g. in P(x) == x + 6x - 2, the constant polynomial
term is -2 • an expression that is the sum of any
continuous (curve) number of terms of the form axn
• a curve with no gaps (where n is a positive integer or zero),
4 2
• no matter what x-value is chosen, a e.g. P(x) == x + 3x - 6x + 8
2 3
corresponding y-value can always be found Q(x) == 2x - x
degree remainder theorem
• the highest power of any term in a • a theorem that is used to find the
polynomial remainder when a polynomial is
dividing (a polynomial) divided by (x - a)
• the divisor, dividend, quotient and root
remainder are names given to the • a solution of the polynomial equation
different parts of the division process, P(x) == 0
e.g. • the degree of the polynomial gives the
x + 2 dividend maximum number of roots that are
x+3 + 5x + 8 possible. A polynomial of degree 3,
/ 2
x + 3x t for example, can have at most 3 roots
divisor 2 x + 8 • roots can be single, double or triple roots,
2x+ 6
e.g. y == (x - l)(x - 2)(x - 3)
/ 2 three single roots at x == 1, 2, 3
remainder 2
y==(x-l)(x-2)
factor (of a polynomial) single root at x == 1, double root at x == 2
• an expression that will divide into a y== (x-1)
3
polynomial and leave a remainder of zero triple root at x == 1
factor theorem zero
• a theorem that is used to find factors • a value of the variable that gives the
of a polynomial polynomial a value of zero
leading coefficient
• the coefficient of the leading term
leading term
• the term that has the highest power
of the variable

1' Polynomials
 POLYNOMIALS
Each part of this test has similar items that test a certain type of question.
Errors made will indicate areas of weakness.
Each weakness should be treated by going back to the section listed.

1 What is the degree of each polynomial? 14:01

2 7 5 3 2 3
a 5x + 7 x + 3 b x - x +x +x c 9 - 2x + x - x

2 What is the leading term for each polynomial? 14:01

2 3 4 2 2
a x - 5x + 3 b 9x + 7 x - 1 c 5 + 3x + x
3 Which expression, A or B, is not a polyno1nial? 14:01
3 2 3
a A: x - x + 1 b A: x + -J-; c A: 2 - 3x + x
2 -1 2
B: x + 2x
B: x . + x + 3 B: 1 - 5x
Questions 4 to 6 refer to the following polynomials: 14:02
2 3 2
P(x) = x + 2, Q(x) = 2x + 3x - 2, R(x) = 2x + x - 5x + 2

4 Determine the following.

a Q(x) + R(x) b R(x) - P(x) c R(x) - Q(x)
5 Find the following products. 14:03
a P(x). Q(x) b P(x). R(x) c (2x - 1). P(x). R(x)
6 Find: 14:03
a Q(x) + P(x) b R(x) + P(x) c R(x) + (x - 1)
7 Find the remainder for the following divisions. 14:04
2
a (x + 3x - 1) + (x - 2)
3 2
b (x + 2x - 7) + (x + 3)
3 2
c (2x - x + x - 4) + (x - 5)

8 For the following, state whether or not A(x) is a factor of B(x). 14:04
2
a A(x) = x - 3, B(x) = x - 5x + 3
3 2
b A(x) = x + 1, B(x) = x + x - x - 1
4 2
c A(x) = x - 2, B(x) = x - 2x - x - 6

9 Solve the equations: 14:05

a x(x - 1)(x + 2) = 0
3
b x - 3x - 2 = 0
3 2
c x - 4x + x + 6 = 0

10 Make sketch graphs of the following. 14:06

a y=-x(x+l)(x-2)
2
b y = (x + 1) (x - 1)(x +3)
3
c y = (x - 1)(x + 2)

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 10 Stages 5.1-5.3

 11 The graph represents the polyno1nial y = P(x). y 14:07
Use the graph to make sketches of: 8

a y = -P(x)
b y = P(x) + 1
c y = P(-x) 4

d y=!P(x)
2

-2

-6

Many mathematical curves can be seen in bridges.

1' Polynomials
ASSIGNMENT 14A hapter review
2 3
1 A(x) = 5x - 3x + 5x - 3. 5 The graph of y = P(x) is shown.
a State the degree, leading terni_ and Use the graph to sketch:
constant term of A(x). a y = P(x) + 1 b y = -O·SP(x)
b Evaluate A(-1). c y = P(-x)
c If A(x)(ax + b) is monic and has a y •l
'
- 7 -
constant term of -6, what is the value
•

of a and b? .
i

6 -
d What will the remainder be when A(x) •
I

is divided by (x + 2)? 5 - I-+

•
'

2 Solve these polynomial equations. 4- -

a 2x(x-3)(x+4)=0 '

b (x-3)(2x+3)(3x-1)=0 3 -
3 2 .
c x - 4x + 4x = 0
4 2
- 2 - - _ll

d x - 8x + 16 = 0 - I
'

- . .

3 Sketch the graphs of the following . .

- . . ·-
polynomials. - I I \ I I I

-2 \. - y 2 4 6 x
a y = (x - 1)(x + 1)(x - 4) - -
2
b y = (x + 1) (x - 4) -1 -J
2 2 I
c y = -(x + 1) (x - 4)
6 a Give an equation of a polynomial
4 A polynomial has zeros at 1, 2 and 4 and
of degree 4 that has:
a y-intercept of 5. Make a possible sketch •
I no zeros ii 1 zero
of the polynomial if it is of
iii 2 zeros iv 3 zeros
a degree 3
v 4 zeros
b degree 4 2
b Sketch the polynomial y = x(x - 2) .
How many zeros will each of the
following polynomials have?
2
i y = x(x - 2) + 1
2
ii y = x(x - 2) - 1

Rivers can look like

polynomial curves
winding their way
to the sea.

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 10 Stages 5.1-5.3

ASSIGNMENT 148 orkin mathematically
1 What can be learned about the shape 4 A tank can be filled by a tap in 3 hours,
of a polynomial from its leading terni_? and it can be emptied via a plug hole in
7 hours. If the tank is empty, how long will
2 Find the equations of the parabolas
it take to fill if the tap is turned on and the
A, Band C.
plug hole is left open? (Assume that water
I
B drains out at a constant rate.)

5 Two identical squares are overlapped so

4 that the vertex of one square is at the
centre of the other. What fraction is the
overlapping area of either square?
A B
L

-2 2 4 6 x
I
0
-'!---- -2

t
-4 M
D

- - -6
c N

3 Bradley must travel from his home to 6 If the line ax + by + c = 0 has a negative
Tim's home regularly. He decides to travel gradient, what does this say about a and b?
a different route each day but, while
travelling, he always chooses a way that
will take him closer to Tim's home
(see the diagram below).
How many days can he travel before
he has to repeat an earlier route?

Bradley's Tim's
home home

1' Polynomials