Chapter 4: Problem 47
First use the graph to estimate the \(x\) -intercepts. Then use algebra to determine each \(x\) -intercept. If an intercept involves a radical, give that answer as well as a calculator approximation rounded to three decimal places. Be sure to check that your results are consistent with the initial graphical estimates. $$y=x^{3}-3 x^{2}-5 x$$ (GRAPH CAN'T COPY)
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Estimate the x-intercepts from the graph
Set up the algebraic equation
Factor the equation
Use the quadratic formula for the additional factors
Solve the quadratic formula
Verify the solutions
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Factoring Polynomials
- Identify any common factors in the equation. In our example, \(x\) is common to all terms, so we factor out \(x\): \(x(x^2 - 3x - 5) = 0\).
- Once you have factored out the common term, you have simplified the equation, revealing potential solutions.
- The factored equation \(x(x^2 - 3x - 5) = 0\) gives the first solution \(x = 0\).
Quadratic Formula
- Understand the formula itself: \(x = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}\).
- Identify the coefficients: For \(x^2 - 3x - 5 = 0\), \(a = 1\), \(b = -3\), and \(c = -5\).
- Substitute these values into the formula to solve for \(x\).
- \(x = \frac{3 \pm \sqrt{49}}{2}\), which simplifies to \(x = 5\) and \(x = -2\).
Algebraic Solutions
- After factoring out the common term, simplify the remaining equation to break it down further.
- Solve any remaining quadratic equations using the quadratic formula if necessary.
- The goal is to find all solutions analytically, giving you algebraic precision over graphical methods alone.
Graphical Estimation
- Visualizing the curve helps identify approximate solutions quickly, even if they are not precise.
- It can provide a check against algebraic solutions, confirming accuracy.
- An estimate from the graph gives you a general sense of where the real roots lie.