SOLUTION: List the potential rational zeros of the polynomial function. Do not find the zeros. f(x) = x^5 - 4x^2 + 2x + 14

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Question 727774: List the potential rational zeros of the polynomial function. Do not find the zeros.
f(x) = x^5 - 4x^2 + 2x + 14


Answer by fcabanski(1391) About Me  (Show Source):
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If x=p/q is a rational zero of a polynomial, then p is a factor of the constant term and q is a factor of the coefficient of the lead term.


List the factors of 14 : + or - 14, + or -1, + or -7, + or - 2


List the factors of the lead term (x^5...the coefficient is 1): + or - 1


The potential rational zeroes are 14/1, -14/1, 7/1, -7/1, 1/1, -1/1, -2/1, 2/1


Keep in mind I didn't list duplicates. For example +14/-1 = -14/+1.

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