SOLUTION: use the rational root theorem to list all possible rational roots of the polynomial equation x3+x2+-7x-4=0 do not find the actual roots. How do i do this problem

Algebra ->  Polynomials-and-rational-expressions -> SOLUTION: use the rational root theorem to list all possible rational roots of the polynomial equation x3+x2+-7x-4=0 do not find the actual roots. How do i do this problem       Log On


   

Question 283568: use the rational root theorem to list all possible rational roots of the polynomial equation x3+x2+-7x-4=0 do not find the actual roots.
How do i do this problem
Answer by jim_thompson5910(35256) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Any rational zero can be found through this equation

where p and q are the factors of the last and first coefficients


So let's list the factors of -4 (the last coefficient):



Now let's list the factors of 1 (the first coefficient):



Now let's divide each factor of the last coefficient by each factor of the first coefficient









Now simplify

These are all the distinct rational zeros of the function that could occur




Note: Not all of these values are actual roots.