Polynomial Equations (Equations of Higher Degree)

by M. Bourne

Historical Solutions...

This section contains some dinosaur mathematics (that is, it is extinct). With software tools, there is no need to churn through pages of algebra solving these things. It is more important to know what it all means and how you can apply it to real problems.

dinosaur

This chapter discusses methods for solving higher degree polynomial equations.

In the study of polynomial equations, the most important thing is to understand what "solution of an equation" means. For equations of higher degree, allow for many solutions. The maximum number of solutions you can get is the degree of the polynomial.

After you finish this chapter, you should be able to use a Computer Algebra System to find solutions, either...

polynomial graph

(a) Graphically, or
(b) Using the CAS directly.

Applications of Root Finding:

modelling
curve fitting
instrumentation
ecological and industrial safety
industrial maintenance and control problems

In this Chapter

We begin by defining polynomials and showing how to find roots of a polynomial in 1. Polynomial Functions and Equations »

Tutors from Harvard, Penn, Cornell and other top US schools are online and ready to help.
First 30 minutes are free! Visit ziizoo.com

Book mark this page in Del.icio.us, Furl, Digg, StumbleUpon, whatever...

Didn't find what you are looking for? Try search:

Top

Next: 1. Polynomial Functions and Equations

Need a break? Play a game. They all involve math... No, really!

Chapter Contents

Polynomial Equations of Higher Degree
1. Polynomial Functions and Equations
2. Remainder and Factor Theorems
3. Factors and Roots of Polynomial Equations

Following are the original SNB files (.tex or .rap) used in making this chapter. For more information, go to SNB info.

SNB files: 1. Polynomial Functions and Equations
3. Factors and Roots of Polynomial Equations

Comments, Questions?

♫ Music while you math...

Go ahead, enjoy! ♫