Purchase Solution

Integer roots are assessed.

Not what you're looking for?

Ask Custom Question

Note the polynomial form P(x) = x2 - a. And, note that the two linear factors ( x + a ) ( x - a ), when multiplied together, yield
( x + a ) ( x - a ) = x2 - a.
Consequently, we note that an equation of the form
x2 - a= 0
can be factored as
( x + a ) ( x - a ) = 0,
giving the two zeros of our equation
x = a, -a.
DQ 5: For an arbitrary integer a and an equation of the form x2 - a = 0, how would you use the response of DQ 2 to determine if our two zeros are, indeed, integers? Can you exhibit an example?

Purchase this Solution

Solution Summary

This solution is comprised of an explanation of how to assess integer roots.

Solution Preview

Suppose that for the equation x^2 - a = 0, we have two integer roots n and m (n and m could be positive or negative), then x^2 - a = (x + n)(x + m) = 0. You can see easily that n or m does not equal ...

Purchase this Solution


Free BrainMass Quizzes
Geometry - Real Life Application Problems

Understanding of how geometry applies to in real-world contexts

Multiplying Complex Numbers

This is a short quiz to check your understanding of multiplication of complex numbers in rectangular form.

Graphs and Functions

This quiz helps you easily identify a function and test your understanding of ranges, domains , function inverses and transformations.

Know Your Linear Equations

Each question is a choice-summary multiple choice question that will present you with a linear equation and then make 4 statements about that equation. You must determine which of the 4 statements are true (if any) in regards to the equation.

Exponential Expressions

In this quiz, you will have a chance to practice basic terminology of exponential expressions and how to evaluate them.