Factor Theorem
Factor Theorem
THEOREMAND
Reynaldo B. Pantino,
ITSCONVE RSE
T2
Objectives: • To identify whether a
given factor is a factor of
a polynomial function.
2 1 -1 -4 4
2 2 -4
1 1 -2 0 remainder
Let us discuss the
following:
2 1 -1 -4 4
2 2 -4
Notice that P(c) = 0, using synthetic division
1 1 -2
P(x) = (x – c) ● Q(x) + R becomes
0 remainder
P(x) = (x – c) ● Q(x) + 0
P(x) = (x – c) ● Q(x).
Remember that:
FACTOR THEOREM
Let P(x) be a polynomial. If P(c) = 0, where c is a real number, then (x
– c) is a factor of P(x). Conversely, if (x – c) is a factor of P(x), then P(c) = 0.
Since the theorem has a converse, the proof consists of two parts.
a.) If (x – c) is a factor of P(x), then P(c) = 0.
b.) If P(c) = 0, then (x – c) is a factor of P(x).
Remember that:
Proof:
(a)
Suppose (x – c) is a factor of P(x), then P(x) = (x – c) ● Q(x). Since
the equation is an identity and is true for any value of x, then it must be true
for x = c. Then;
P(c) = (c – c) ● Q(x)
P(c) = 0 ● Q(x)
P(c) = 0
Remember that:
Proof:
(b)
Suppose P(c) = 0. By remainder theorem, when P(x) is divided by (x –
c), the remainder (R) = P(c) = 0. Then;
P(x) = (x – c) ● Q(x) + 0
P(x) = (x – c) ● Q(x)
2. (x + 2); x8 + 2x7 + x + 2
3. (a – 1); a3 – 2a2 + a – 2
2.) 2, -1 , -2
3.) 1, 1, 3