Homework Help: pre-calculus

Posted by Carl on Sunday, October 25, 2009 at 5:25pm.

List the possible rational roots of each equation. Then determine the rational roots.

6x^4+35x^3-x^2-7x-1

The answer in the back of the book is:

-1/3 and 1/2

I know that I'm supposed to use Descartes rule of signs. I found that there was 1 positive zero and 3 or 1 negative zeroes.

I'm a bit confused on how you know exactly how many of each zeroes you are supposed to have. I'm assuming you know by looking at the degree and determining which adds up.

Also, how come the book only states 2 answers?

I used an online calculator that says there are 2 other answers which are:

-3 - 2(2)^(1/2)
and
2(2)^(1/2) - 3

Much help appreciated

No one has answered this question yet.

Answer this Question

Related Questions

College Algebra--Still Confused - I have a few problems I need help with and ...
College Algebra - I have a few problems I need help with and also do have ...
Pre-Calc-Please check - Is this correct? Using Rational Roots Theorem, list all...
algebra - using the rational root theorem to list all possible rational roots of...
ALGEBRA 2 - Use the Rational Root Theorem to list all possible rational roots ...
Math - Rational Roots - 1.) What are the possible rational roots of the function...
Advanced Math. - List the possible rational roots of 2x^3 + 17x^2 + 23x - 42 = 0...
math - List all possible rational zeros of... h(x)= 2x to the (4th power) - 5x (...
Pre-Calc-Please check - I have three questions: 1. What is the remainder of (x^3...
algebra - Factor this polynomial: F(x)=x^3-x^2-4x+4 Try to find the rational ...

For Further Reading

First Name:
School Subject:
Answer: