College Algebra (6th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32178-228-3
ISBN 13: 978-0-32178-228-1

Chapter 3 - Polynomial and Rational Functions - Exercise Set 3.2 - Page 361: 36

Answer

$f(2)$ and $f(3)$ have opposite signs, so f(x) has a real zero between $2$ and $3$.

Work Step by Step

The Intermediate Value Theorem for Polynomial Functions$:$ Let $f$ be a polynomial function with real coefficients. If $f(a)$ and $f(b)$ have opposite signs, then there is at least one value of $c$ between $a$ and $b$ for which $f(c)=0$. ------------------- $ a=2,\quad f(a)=(2)^{4}+6(2)^{3}-18(2)^{2}$ $=16+48-72=-8\quad$(negative) $ b=3,\quad f(b)=(3)^{4}+6(3)^{3}-18(3)^{2}$ $=81+162-162=81\quad$(positive) $f(2)$ and $f(3)$ have opposite signs, so f(x) has a real zero between $2$ and $3$.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.