Polynomials

Question 1

How to solve polynomial equations

Answer 1

1- if both equations are y = then equate 2 equations
2- rearrange everything to left hand side and make = 0
3- use synthetic division to factorise
4- solve as before
5- if question asks for coordinates sub x values into original equations to find corresponding y value

Question 2

What is the general equation for the family of curves

Answer 2

f(x) = k(x-a)(x-b)(x-c)

K can be found by substituting (0,x) or any other point that lies on the curve other than roots

Question 3

What is an important point to remember when determining the equation from a graph

Answer 3

If curve lies on x axis then there are two roots so repeated root