SOLUTION: Evaluate P(-1/2) if P(x)=2x^4+x^3+12

Algebra ->  Polynomials-and-rational-expressions -> SOLUTION: Evaluate P(-1/2) if P(x)=2x^4+x^3+12      Log On


   

Question 198724: Evaluate P(-1/2) if P(x)=2x^4+x^3+12
Answer by jim_thompson5910(35256) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
P%28x%29=2x%5E4%2Bx%5E3%2B12 Start with the given equation.


P%28-1%2F2%29=2%28-1%2F2%29%5E4%2B%28-1%2F2%29%5E3%2B12 Plug in x=-1%2F2.


P%28-1%2F2%29=2%281%2F16%29%2B%28-1%2F2%29%5E3%2B12 Raise -1%2F2 to the 4th power to get 1%2F16.


P%28-1%2F2%29=2%281%2F16%29-1%2F8%2B12 Cube -1%2F2 to get -1%2F8.


P%28-1%2F2%29=1%2F8-1%2F8%2B12 Multiply 2 and 1%2F16 to get 1%2F8.


P%28-1%2F2%29=12 Combine like terms.