Math Problem Statement

What are the zeros of the polynomial function F(x) = x^3 - x^2 - 6x?

Solution

Let us solve the given polynomial F(x)=x3x26xF(x) = x^3 - x^2 - 6x to find its zeros.

Step 1: Factor the polynomial

We can start by factoring out the greatest common factor (GCF): F(x)=x(x2x6).F(x) = x(x^2 - x - 6).

Step 2: Factor the quadratic

Now, factorize the quadratic x2x6x^2 - x - 6: x2x6=(x3)(x+2).x^2 - x - 6 = (x - 3)(x + 2).

Step 3: Write the fully factored form

The fully factored form of F(x)F(x) is: F(x)=x(x3)(x+2).F(x) = x(x - 3)(x + 2).

Step 4: Solve for the zeros

Set each factor equal to zero:

  1. x=0x = 0,
  2. x3=0x - 3 = 0x=3x = 3,
  3. x+2=0x + 2 = 0x=2x = -2.

Thus, the zeros of the polynomial are: x=2,x=0, and x=3.x = -2, x = 0, \text{ and } x = 3.

Final Answer:

The correct choice is: D. x=2,x=0, and x=3x = -2, x = 0, \text{ and } x = 3.


Do you have any questions or need further clarification?

Related Questions:

  1. What does it mean for a value to be a "zero" of a polynomial function?
  2. How do you factorize a quadratic equation quickly?
  3. How do polynomial degrees relate to the number of zeros?
  4. How can the graph of F(x)=x3x26xF(x) = x^3 - x^2 - 6x confirm the zeros?
  5. What are the steps to check your factored form is correct?

Tip:

Always double-check your factored expression by multiplying the factors back to ensure it equals the original polynomial!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Polynomial Functions
Factoring
Finding Zeros

Formulas

Factoring: ax^2 + bx + c = (x + p)(x + q)
Setting factors to zero to find solutions

Theorems

Zero Product Property

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10