Math Problem Statement

Suppose that the polynomial function f is defined as f(x) = 6x(x + 2)(x - 13)^3. List each zero of f according to its multiplicity.

Solution

The given polynomial function is:

f(x)=6x(x+2)(x13)3f(x) = 6x(x + 2)(x - 13)^3

Step-by-step analysis:

  1. Identify the zeros of the function:

    • From 6x6x, the zero is x=0x = 0.
    • From x+2x + 2, the zero is x=2x = -2.
    • From (x13)3(x - 13)^3, the zero is x=13x = 13.
  2. Determine the multiplicity of each zero:

    • For x=0x = 0, it appears in the term 6x6x, which is a linear term. Hence, multiplicity = 1.
    • For x=2x = -2, it appears in the term x+2x + 2, which is also linear. Hence, multiplicity = 1.
    • For x=13x = 13, it appears in the term (x13)3(x - 13)^3, which is raised to the third power. Hence, multiplicity = 3.

Final Answer:

  • Zeros of multiplicity 1: 0,20, -2
  • Zeros of multiplicity 2: None
  • Zeros of multiplicity 3: 1313

Would you like further details or explanations?


Here are 5 related questions to deepen understanding:

  1. What does the term "multiplicity of a zero" mean in a polynomial function?
  2. How does the multiplicity of a zero affect the graph of a polynomial near that zero?
  3. Can a polynomial have a zero with multiplicity greater than the degree of the polynomial?
  4. How would the polynomial change if (x13)3(x - 13)^3 was replaced with (x13)4(x - 13)^4?
  5. What are the implications of the leading coefficient (66) in the polynomial?

Tip: Zeros with odd multiplicities (e.g., 1 or 3) cause the graph to cross the x-axis, while those with even multiplicities only touch the x-axis.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Polynomials
Zeros of a Function
Multiplicity

Formulas

f(x) = 6x(x + 2)(x - 13)^3

Theorems

Multiplicity of Zeros in Polynomials

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12