UNIT I: ALGEBRA, VECTORS AND GEOMETRY

1
Solution of Equations
1. Introduction. 2. General properties. 3. Transformation of equations. 4. Reciprocal equations. 5. Solution of cubic
equations–Cardan’s method. 6. Solution of biquadratic equations—Ferrari’s method ; Descarte’s method.
7. Graphical solution of equations. 8. Objective Type of Questions.

1.1 INTRODUCTION
The expression f(x) = a0xn + a1xn 1 + ... + an 1 x + an
where a s are constants (a0 ≠ 0) and n is a positive integer, is called a polynomial in x of degree n. The polynomial
f(x) = 0 is called an algebraic equation of degree n. If f(x) contains some other functions such as trigonometric,
logarithmic, exponential etc. ; then f(x) = 0 is called a transcendental equation.
The value of x which satisfies f(x) = 0, ...(1)
is called its root. Geometrically, a root of (1) is that value of x where the graph of y = f(x) crosses the x-axis. The
process of finding the roots of an equation is known as solution of that equation. This is a problem of basic
importance in applied mathematics. We often come across problems in deflection of beams, electrical circuits and
mechanical vibrations which depend upon the solution of equations. As such, a brief account of solution of equa-
tions is given in this chapter.

1.2 GENERAL PROPERTIES

I. If α is a root of the equation f(x) = 0, then the polynomial f(x) is exactly divisible by x α and conversely.
For instance, 3 is a root of the equation x4 6x2 8x 3 = 0, because x = 3 satisfies this equation.
∴ x 3 divides x4 6x2 8x 3 completely, i.e., x 3 is its factor.
II. Every equation of the nth degree has n roots (real or imaginary).
Conversely if α1, α2, ..., αn be the roots of the nth degree equation f(x) = 0, then
f(x) = A (x α1) (x α2) ... (x αn) where A is a constant.

Obs. If a polynomial of degree n vanishes for more than n values of x, it must be identically zero.

Example 1.1. Solve the equation 2x3 + x2 13x + 6 = 0.

Solution. By inspection, we find x = 2 satisfies the given equation.

∴ 2 is its root, i.e. x 2 is a factor of 2x3 + x2 13x + 6. Dividing this polynomial by x 2, we get the
quotient 2x2 + 5x 3 and remainder 0.
Equating the quotient to zero, we get 2x2 + 5x 3 = 0.
− 5 ± √[52 − 4 . (2) . (− 3)] − 5 ± 7 1
Solving this quadratic, we get x = = = − 3, .
2×2 4 2
Hence, the roots of the given equation are 2, 3, 1/2.
1
 2 HIGHER ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS

Note. The labour of dividing the polynomial by x 2 can be saved considerably by the following simple device called
synthetic division.
2 1 13 6 2
4 10 6
2 5 3 0

[Explanation : (i) Write down the coefficient of the powers of x in order (supplying the missing powers of x by zero co-
efficients and write 2 on extreme right.
(ii) Put 2 as the first term of 3rd row and multiply it by 2, write 4 under 1 and add, giving 5.
(iii) Multiply 5 by 2, write 10 under 13 and add, giving 3.
(iv) Multiply 3 by 2, write 6 under 6 and add given zero].
Thus the quotient is 2x2 + 5x 3 and remainder is zero.

Obs. To divide a polynomial by x + h, we write h on the extreme right.

III. Intermediate value property. If f(a) and f(b) have different Y

signs, then the equation f(x) = 0 has atleast one root between x = a

)
f(x
and x = b.

y=
The polynomial f(x) is a continuous function of x (Fig. 1.1). So while x
changes from a to b, f(x) must pass through all the values from f(a) to f(b). f(b)
But since one of these quantities f(a) or f(b) is positive and the other nega-
tive, it follows that at least for one value of x(say α) lying between a and b,
x=a
f(x) must be zero. Then α is the required root.
O x=a x=b X
IV. In an equation with real coefficients, imaginary roots occur in f(a)
conjugate pairs, i.e., if α + iβ is a root of the equation f(x) = 0, then
α iβ must also be its root. (See p. 534) Fig. 1.1

Similarly if a + b is an irrational root of an equation, then a b must also be its root.

Obs. Every equation of the odd degree has at least one real root.

This follows from the fact that imaginary roots occur in conjugate pairs.

Example 1.2. Solve the equation 3x3 4x2 + x + 88 = 0, one root being 2 + √7i.

Solution. Since one root is 2 + √7i, the other root must be 2 √7i.
∴ The factors corresponding to these roots are
(x 2 √7i) and (x 2 + √7i)
or (x 2 √7i) (x 2 + √7i) = (x 2)2 + 7 = x2 4x + 11,
which is a divisor of 3x3 4x2 + x + 88 ...(i)
2
∴ Division of (i) by x 4x + 11 gives 3x + 8 as the quotient.
Thus the depressed equation is 3x + 8 = 0. Its root is 8/3. Hence the roots of the given equation are
2 ± √7i, 8/3.
V. Descarte s rule of signs. *The equation f (x) = 0 cannot have more positive roots than the changes of
signs in f(x); and more negative roots than the changes of signs in f ( x).
For instance, consider the equation f(x) = 2x7 x5 + 4x3 5 = 0 ...(1)
Sign of f(x) are + +

Clearly, f(x) has 3 changes of signs (from + to or to +).

Thus (i) cannot have more than 3 positive roots.

*After the French mathematician and philosopher Rene Descartes (1596 1650), who invented Analytic geometry in 1637.
 SOLUTION OF EQUATIONS 3

Also f( x) = 2( x)7 ( x)5 + 4( x)3 5

= 2x7 + x5 4x3 5

This shows that f(x) has 2 changes of signs. Thus (i) cannot have more than 2 negative roots.

Obs. Existence of imaginary roots. If an equation of the nth degree has at the most p positive roots and at the most q
negative roots, then it follows that the equation has at least n (p + q) imaginary roots.
Evidently (1) above is an equation of the 7th degree and has at the most 3 positive roots and 2 negative roots. Thus
(1) has at least 2 imaginary roots.

VI. Relations between roots and coefficients, If α1, α2, α3, ..., αn be the roots of the equation
a0xn + a1xn 1 + a2xn 2 + ... + an 1 x + an = 0 ...(1)
a1 a a3
then Σα1 = , Σα1α2 = 2 , Σα1α2α3 =
a0 a0 a0
...........................................................................
α1α2α3 ...... αn = ( 1)n an .
a0

Example 1.3. Solve the equation x3 7x2 + 36 = 0, given that one root is double of another.

Solution. Let the roots be α, β, γ such that β = 2α.

Also α + β + γ = 7, αβ + βγ + γα = 0, αβγ = 36
∴ 3α + γ = 7 ...(i)
2
2α + 3αγ = 0 ...(ii)
2α2γ = 36 ...(iii)
Solving (i) and (ii), we get α = 3, γ = 2.
[The values α = 0, γ = 7 are inadmissible, as they do not satisfy (iii)].
Hence the required roots are 3, 6 and 2.

Example 1.4. Solve the equation x4 2x3 + 4x2 + 6x 21 = 0, given that the sum of two of its roots is zero.
(Cochin, 2005 ; Madras, 2003)

Solution. Let the roots be α, β, γ, δ such that α + β = 0.

Also α+β+γ+δ=2 ∴ γ+δ=2
Thus the quadratic factor corresponding to α, β is of the form x2 0x + p, and that
corresponding to γ, δ is of the form of x2 2x + q.
∴ x4 2x3 + 4x2 + 6x 21 = (x2 + p) (x2 2x + q) ...(i)
Equating the coefficients of x2 and x from both sides of (i), we get
4 = p + q, 6 = 2p.
∴ p = 3, q = 7.
Hence the given equation is equivalent to (x2 3) (x2 2x + 7) = 0
∴ The roots are x = ± 3,1± i 6.

Example 1.5. Find the condition that the cubic x3 lx2 + mx n = 0 should have its roots in
(a) arithmetical progression.
(b) geometrical progression. (Madras, 2000 S)

Solution. (a) Let the roots be a d, a, a + d so that the sum of the roots = 3a = l i.e., a = l/3.
Since a is the root of the given equation
∴ a3 la2 + ma n = 0 ...(i)
Substituting a = l/3, we get (l/3)3 l(l/3)2 + m(l/3) n = 0.
or 2l3 9lm + 27n = 0, which is the required condition.
 4 HIGHER ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS

(b) Let the roots be a/r, a, ar, so that the product of the roots = a3 = n.
Putting a = (n)1/3, in (i), we get n ln2/3 + mn1/3 n = 0 or m = ln1/3
Cubing both sides, we get m3 = l3n, which is the required condition.

Example 1.6. Solve the equation x4 2x3 21x2 + 22x + 40 = 0 whose roots are in A.P.

Solution. Let the roots be a 3d, a d, a + d, a + 3d, so that the sum of the roots = 4a = 2.
∴ a = 1/2
Also product of the roots = (a2 9d2) (a2 d2) = 40

or ⎛1 2⎞ ⎛1 2⎞ 4 40d2
⎜⎝ − 9 d ⎟⎠ ⎜⎝ − d ⎟⎠ = 40 or 144d 639 = 0
4 4
∴ d2 = 9/4 or 7/36
Thus, d = ± 3/2, the other value is not admissible.
Hence the required roots are 4, 1, 2, 5.

Example 1.7. Solve the equation 2x4 15x3 + 35x2 30x + 8 = 0, whose roots are in G.P.

Solution. Let the roots be a/r3, a/r, ar, ar3, so that product of the roots = a4 = 4.
Also the product of a/r3, ar3 and a/r, ar are each = a2 = 2.
∴ The factors corresponding to a/r3, ar3 and a/r, ar are x2 + px + 2, x2 + qx + 2.
Thus, 2x4 15x3 + 35x2 30x + 8 = 2 (x2 + px + 2) (x2 + qx + 2)
Equating the coefficients of x3 and x2
15 = 2p + 2q and 35 = 8 + 2pq
∴ p = 9/2, q = 3.
⎛ 9 ⎞
Thus the given equation is 2 ⎜ x2 − x + 2⎟ (x2 3x + 2) = 0
⎝ 2 ⎠

Hence the required roots are 1/2, 4 and 1, 2 i.e., 1 , 1, 2, 4.

2

Example 1.8. If α, β, γ be the roots of the equation x3 + px + q = 0, find the value of

(a) Σα2β, (b) Σα4 (c) Σα2β.

Solution. We have α+β+γ=0 ...(i)

αβ + βγ + γα = p ...(ii)
αβγ = q ...(iii)
(a) Multiplying (i) and (ii), we get
α2β + α2γ + β2γ + β2α + γ2α + γ2β + 3αβγ = 0
or Σα2β = 3αβγ = 3q [By (iii)]
(b) Multiplying the given equation by x, we get x4 + px2 + qx = 0
Putting x = α, β, γ successively and adding, we get Σα4 + pΣα2 + qΣα = 0
or Σα4 = pΣα2 q(0) ...(iv)
Now squaring (i), we get α2 + β2 + γ2 + 2(αβ + βγ + γα) = 0
or Σα2 = 2p [By (ii)]
Hence, substituting the value of Σα2 in (iv), we obtain
Σα4 = p( 2p) = 2p2.
(c) Σα3β = Σα2 Σαβ αβγΣα = 2p(p) ( q) (0) = 2p2.
 SOLUTION OF EQUATIONS 5

PROBLEMS 1.1

1. Form the equation of the fourth degree whose roots are 3 + i and 7.
2. Solve the equation (i) x3 + 6x + 20 = 0, one root being 1 + 3i. (C.S.V.T.U., 2012)
(ii) x4 2x3 22x2 + 62x 15 = 0, given that 2 + 3 is a root.
3. Show that x7 3x4 + 2x3 1 = 0 has at least four imaginary roots. (Cochin, 2005)
4. Show that the equation x4 + 15x2 + 7x 11 = 0 has one positive, one negative and two imaginary roots.
5. Find the number and position of real roots of x4 + 4x3 4x 13 = 0.
6. Solve the equation 3x3 11x2 + 8x + 4 = 0, given that two of its roots are equal.
7. If r1, r2, r3 are the roots of the equation 2x3 3x2 + kx 1 = 0, find constant k if sum of two roots is 1.
(C.S.V.T.U., 2009)
8. The equation x4 4x3 + ax2 + 4x + b = 0 has two pairs of equal roots. Find the values of a and b.
Solve the following equations 9 14 :
9. x3 9x2 + 14x + 24 = 0, given that two of its roots are in the ratio 3 : 2.
10. x3 4x2 20x + 48 = 0 given that the roots α and β are connected by the relation α + 2β = 0. (C.S.V.T.U., 2012)
11. x4 6x3 + 13x2 12x + 4 = 0, given that it has two parts of equal roots. (Madras, 2003)
12. x4 8x3 + 21x2 20x + 5 = 0 given that the sum of two of the roots is equal to the sum of the other two.
13. x3 12x2 + 39x 28 = 0, roots being in arithmetical progression. (Madras, 2001 S)
14. 8x3 14x2 + 7x 1 = 0, roots being in geometrical progression.
15. O, A, B, C are the four points on a straight line such that the distances of A, B, C from O are the roots of equation ax3 +
3bx2 + 3cx + d = 0. If B is the middle point of AC, show that a2d 3abc + 2b3 = 0. (C.S.V.T.U., 2011)
16. Solve the equations (i) x4 + 2x3 21x2 22x + 40 = 0 whose roots are in A.P.
(ii) x4 + 5x3 30x2 + 40x + 64 = 0 whose roots are in G.P.
17. If α, β, γ be the roots of the equation x3 lx2 + mx n = 0, find the value of
(i) Σα2β2, (ii) (β + γ) (γ + α) (α + β)
18. Find the sum of the cubes of the roots of the equation x3 6x2 + 11x 6 = 0.
19. If α, β, γ are the roots of x3 + 4x 3 = 0, find the value of (i) α 1 +β 1 + γ 1 (ii) α 2 +β 2 + γ 2.
20. If α, β, γ be the roots of x3 + px + q = 0, show that
(i) α5 + β5 + γ5 = 5αβγ (βγ + γα + αβ), (ii) 3Σα2 Σα5 = 5Σα3 Σα4.

1.3 TRANSFORMATION OF EQUATIONS

(1) To find an equation whose roots are m times the roots of the given equation, multiply the
second term by m, third term by m2 and so on (all missing terms supplied with zero coefficients).
For instance, let the given equation be
3x4 + 6x3 + 4x2 8x + 11 = 0 ...(i)
To multiply its roots by m, put y = mx (or x = y/m) in (i).
Then 3(y/m)4 + 6(y/m)3 + 4(y/m)2 + 8(y/m) + 11 = 0
Multiplying by m4, we get 3y4 + m(6y3) + m2(4y2) m3(8y) + m4(11) = 0
This is same as multiplying the second term by m, third term by m2 and so on in (i).

Cor. To find an equation whose roots are with opposite signs to those of the given equation, change the signs
of the every alternative term of the given equation beginning with the second.
Changing the signs of the roots of (i) is same as multiplying its roots by 1.
∴ The required equation will be
3x4 + ( 1)6x3 + ( 1)2 4x2 ( 1)3 8x + ( 1)4 11 = 0
or 3x4 6x3 + 4x3 + 8x + 11 = 0
which is (i) with signs of every alternate term changed beginning with the second.

(2) To find an equation whose roots are reciprocal of the root of the given equation, change x
to 1/x.
 6 HIGHER ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS

Example 1.9. Solve 6x3 11x2 3x + 2 = 0, given that its roots are in harmonic progression.

Solution. Since the roots of the given equation are in H.P., the roots of the equation having reciprocal
roots will be in A.P.
The equation with reciprocal roots is 6(1/x)3 11(1/x)2 3(1/x) + 2 = 0
or 2x3 3x2 11x + 6 = 0 ...(i)
Since the roots of the given equation are in H.P., therefore, the roots of (i) are in A.P. Let the root be a d,
a, a + d. Then
3a = 3/2 and a(a2 d2) = 3.
Solving these equations, we get a = 1/2, d = 5/2.
Thus the roots of (i) are 2, 1/2, 3.
Hence the required roots of the given equation are 1/2, 2, 1/3.

Example 1.10. If α, β, γ be the roots of the cubic equation x3 px2 + qx r = 0, form the equation whose
roots are βγ + 1/α, γα + 1/β, αβ + 1/γ.
Hence evaluate Σ(αβ + 1/γ) (βγ + 1/α). (C.S.V.T.U., 2008)

Solution. If x is a root of the given equation and y a root of the required equation, then
αβγ + 1 r + 1
y = βγ + 1/α = = [∵ αβγ = r]
α α
r +1 r + 1
or y= ⇒ x=
x y
Thus substituting x = (r + 1)/y in the given equation, we get
3 2
⎛ r + 1⎞ ⎛ r + 1⎞ ⎛ r + 1⎞
⎜⎝ y ⎟⎠ − p ⎜⎝ y ⎟⎠ + q ⎜⎝ y ⎟⎠ r=0

or ry3 q(r + 1) y2 + p(r + 1)2 y (r + 1)3 = 0, which is the required equation.

Hence Σ (αβ + 1/γ) (βγ + 1/α) = p(r + 1)2/r.

Example 1.11. Form an equation whose roots are cubes of the roots of x3 3x2 + 1 = 0. ...(i)

Solution. If y be a root of the required equation, then y = x3 ...(ii)

Now we have to eliminate x from (i) and (ii)
∴ Rewriting (i) as x3 + 1 = 3x2
Cubing both sides, x9 + 3x6 + 3x3 + 1 = 27x6
Substituting x = y, we get y3 24y2 + 3y + 1 = 0, which is the required equation.
3

(3) To diminish the roots of an equation f(x) = 0 by h, divide f (x) by x h successively. Then the
successive remainders determine the coefficients of the required equation.
Let the given equation be
a0xn + a1xn 1 + ... + an 1 x + an = 0 ...(i)
To diminish its roots by h, put y = x h (or x = y + h) in (i) so that
a0(y + h)n + a1(y + h)n 1 + ... + an = 0 ...(ii)
On simplification, it takes the form
A0 yn + A1 yn 1 + ... + An = 0 ...(iii)
Its coefficient A0, A1, ... An can easily be found with the help of synthetic division (p. 2). For this, we put
y = x h in (iii) so that
A0 (x h)n + A1(x h)n 1 + ... + An = 0 ...(iv)
Clearly, (i) and (iv) are identical. If we divide L.H.S. of (iv) by x h, the remainder is An and the quotient
Q = A0 (x h)n 1 + A1 (x h)n 2 + ... + An 1. Similarly, if we divide Q by x h, the remainder is An 1 and the quotient
is Q1(say). Again dividing Q1 by x h, An 2 will be obtained as remainder and so on.

Obs. To increase the roots by h, we take h negative.

 SOLUTION OF EQUATIONS 7

Example 1.12. Transform the equation x3 6x2 + 5x + 8 = 0 into another in which the second term is
missing. Hence find the equation of its squared differences. (Cochin, 2005)

Solution. Sum of the roots of the given equation = 6.

In order that the second term in the transformed equation is missing, the sum of the roots is to be zero.
Since the equation has 3 roots, if we decrease each root by 2, the sum of the roots of the new equation will
become zero.
∴ Dividing x3 6x2 + 5x + 8 by x 2 successively, we have

1 6 5 8 (2
2 8 6
4 3 2
2 4
2 7
2
1 0
Thus the transformed equation is x3 7x + 2 = 0. ...(i)
If α, β, γ be the roots of the given equation, then the roots of (i) are α 2, β 2, γ 2.
Let these roots be denoted by a, b, c.
Then b c = β γ. Also a + b + c = 0, abc = 2.
2abc
Now (b c)2 = (b + c)2 2bc = (a + b + c a)2 = a2 + 4/a
a
∴ The equation of squared differences of (i) is given by the transformation y = x2 + 4/x
or x3 xy + 4 = 0 ...(ii)
Subtracting (ii) from (i), we get 7x + xy 2 = 0 or x = 2/(y 7)
Substituting for x in (i), the equation becomes
[2/(y 7)]3 7[2/(y 7)] + 2 = 0 or y3 28y2 + 245y 682 = 0 ...(iii)
Roots of this equation are (b c)2, (c a)2, (a b)2 i.e., (β γ)2, (γ α)2, (α β)2.
Hence (iii) is the required equation.

1.4 RECIPROCAL EQUATIONS

If an equation remains unaltered on changing x to 1/x, it is called a reciprocal equation.
Such equations are of the following standard types :
I. A reciprocal equation of an odd degree having coefficients of terms equidistant from the beginning and
end equal. It has a root = 1.
II. A reciprocal equation of an odd degree having coefficients of terms equidistant from the beginning and
end equal but opposite in sign. It has root = 1.
III. A reciprocal equation of an even degree having coefficients of terms equidistant from the beginning and
end equal but opposite in sign. Such an equation has two roots = 1 and 1.
The substitution x + 1/x = y reduces the degree of the equation of half its former degree.

Example 1.13. Solve 6x5 41x4 + 97x3 97x2 + 41x 6 = 0. (C.S.V.T.U., 2011; Coimbatore, 2001 S)

Solution. This is a reciprocal equation of odd degree with opposite signs. ∴ x = 1 is a root.
Dividing L.H.S. by x 1, the given equation reduces to
6x4 35x3 + 62x2 35x + 6 = 0
2
Dividing by x , we have
6(x2 + 1/x2) 35(x + 1/x) + 62 = 0
Putting x + 1/x = y and x2 + 1/x2 = y2 2, we get
6(y2 2) 35y + 62 = 0 or 6y2 35y + 50 = 0 or (3y 1)(2y 5) = 0
∴ x + 1/x = y = 1/3 or 5/2
 8 HIGHER ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS

i.e., 3x2 10x + 3 = 0 or 2x2 5x + 2 = 0

i.e., (3x 1)(x 3) = 0 or (2x 1)(x 2) = 0
∴ x = 1/3, 3 or 1/2, 2
Hence the required roots are 1, 1/3, 3, 1/2, 2.

Example 1.14. Solve 6x6 25x5 + 31x4 31x2 + 25x 6 = 0. (Madras, 2003)

Solution. This is a reciprocal equation of even degree with opposite signs. ∴ x = 1, 1 are its roots.
Dividing L.H.S. by x 1 and x + 1, the given equation reduces to
6x4 25x3 + 37x2 25x + 6 = 0
2
Dividing by x , we get
6(x2 + 1/x2) 25(x + 1/x) + 37 = 0.
Putting x + 1/x = y and x2 + 1/x2 = y2 2, it becomes
6(y2 2) 25y + 37 = 0 or 6y2 25y + 25 = 0
or (2y 5) (3y 5) = 0
∴ x + 1/x = y = 5/2 or 5/3.
i.e., 2x2 5x + 2 = 0 or 3x2 5x + 3 = 0
5 ± i 11
∴ x = 2, 1/2 or x=
6
Hence the required roots of the given equation are 1, 1, 2, 1/2,
5 ± i 11 .
6

PROBLEMS 1.2

1. Find the equation whose roots are 3 times the roots of x3 + 2x2 4x + 1 = 0.
2. Form the equation whose roots are the reciprocals of the roots of 2x5 + 4x3 13x2 + 7x 6 = 0. (C.S.V.T.U., 2009)
3. Find the equation whose roots are the negative reciprocals of the roots of
x4 + 7x3 + 8x2 9x + 10 = 0.
4. Solve the equation 6x 11x2 3x + 2 = 0, given that its roots are in H.P.
3

5. Find the equation whose roots are the roots of

(i) x3 6x2 + 11x 6 = 0 each increased by 1. (C.S.V.T.U., 2009)
(ii) x4 + x3 3x2 x + 2 = 0 each diminished by 3.
(iii) x5 5x4 + 10x3 10x2 + 5x + 6 = 0 each diminished by 1.
6. Find the equation whose roots are the squares of the roots of x3 x2 + 8x 6 = 0.
7. Find the equation whose roots are the cubes of the roots of x3 + px2 + q = 0.
8. If α, β, γ are the roots of the equation 2x3 + 3x2 x 1 = 0, form the equation whose roots are (1 α) 1, (1 β) 1 and
(1 γ) 1.
9. If a, b, c are the roots of the equation x3 + px2 + qx + r = 0, find the equation whose roots are ab, bc and ca.
(Madras, 2003)
10. If α, β, γ be the roots of x3 + mx + n = 0, form the equation whose roots are
1 1 1 1 1 1
(a) α + β γ, β + γ α, γ + α β, (b) βγ/α, γα/β, αβ/γ (c)
+ , + , + .
β γ γ α α β
11. Find the equation of squared differences of the roots of the cubic x3 + 6x2 + 7x + 2 = 0. (C.S.V.T.U., 2011)
12. Solve the equations :
(i) 6x4 + 5x3 38x2 + 5x + 6 = 0 (ii) 4x4 20x3 + 33x2 20x + 4 = 0. (Madras, 2003)
5 4 3 2
(iii) 8x 22x 55x + 55x + 22x 8 = 0. (iv) 6x5 + x4 43x3 43x2 + x + 6 = 0 (C.S.V.T.U., 2006)
(v) 3x6 + x5 27x4 + 27x2 x 3 = 0.
13. Show that the equation x4 10x3 + 23x2 6x 15 = 0 can be transformed into reciprocal equation by diminishing the
roots by 2. Hence solve the equation.
14. By suitable transformation, reduce the equation x4 + 16x3 + 83x2 + 152x + 84 = 0 to an equation in which term in x3
is absent and hence solve it. (Madras, 2002)
 SOLUTION OF EQUATIONS 9

1.5 SOLUTION OF CUBIC EQUATIONS CARDAN S METHOD*

Consider the equation ax3 + bx2 + cx + d = 0 ...(1)
3 2
Dividing by a, we get an equation of the form x + lx + mx + n = 0.
To remove the x2 term, put y = x ( l/3) or x = y l/3 so that the resulting equation is of the form
y3 + py + q = 0 ...(2)
To solve (2), put y=u+v
so that y3 = u3 + v3 + 3uv (u + v) = u3 + v3 + 3uvy
or y3 3uvy (u3 + v3) = 0 ...(3)
Comparing (2) and (3), we get
uv = p/3, u3 + v3 = q or u3 + v3 = q and u3 v3 = p3/27
∴ u , v are the roots of the equation t2 + qt p3/27 = 0
3 3

1
which gives (− q + q2 + 4 p3 /27) = λ3 (say)
u3 =
2
1
and v3 = ( − q q2 + 4 p3 / 27)
2
∴ The three values of u are λ, λω, λω2, where ω is one of the imaginary cube roots of unity.
From uv = p/3, we have v = p/3u
∴ When u = λ, λω and λω2,
p pω 2 pω
v= ,− and . [∵ ω3 = 1]
3λ 3λ 3λ
p pω 2 pω
Hence the three roots of (2) are λ , λω , λω2 (Being = u + v)
3λ 3λ 3λ
Having known y, the corresponding values of x can be found from the relation x = y l/3.

Obs. 1. If one value of u is found to be a rational number, find the corresponding value of v giving one root y = u + v.
Then find the corresponding root x = α (say). Finally, divide the left hand side of (1) by x α, giving the remaining quadratic
equation from which the other two roots can be found readily.
Obs. 2. If u3 and v3 turn out to be conjugate complex numbers, the roots of the given cubic can be obtained in neat
forms by employing De Moivre s theorem. (§ 19.5)

Example 1.15. Solve by Cardan s method x3 3x2 + 12x + 16 = 0. (U.P.T.U., 2008)

Solution. Given equation is x3 3x2 + 12x + 16 = 0 ...(i)

To remove the second term from (i), diminish each root of (i) by 3/3 = 1, i.e., put y = x 1 or x=y+1
[∴ Sum of roots = 3]. Then (i) becomes
(y + 1)3 3(y + 1) + 12(y + 1) + 16 = 0 or y3 + 9y2 + 26 = 0 ...(ii)
To solve (ii), put y = u + v so that y3 3uvy (u3 + v3) = 0 ...(iii)
Comparing (ii) and (iii), we get uv = 3 and u3 + v3 = 26
∴ u3, v3 are the roots of the equation t2 + 26t 27 = 0
or (t + 27) (t 1) = 0 whence t = 27, t = 1.
or u3 = 27 i.e., u = 3 and v3 = 1 i.e., v = 1
∴ y = u + v = 3 + 1 = 2 and x = y + 1 = 1
Dividing L.H.S. of (i) by x + 1, we obtain x2 4x + 16 = 0
4 ± (16 − 64)
or x= =2±i 2 3
2
Hence the required roots of the given equation are 1, 2 ± i 2 3.

*Named after an Italian mathematician Girolamo Cardan (1501 1576) who was the first to use complex numbers as roots
of an equation.
 10 HIGHER ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS

Example 1.16. Solve the cubic equation 28x3 9x2 + 1 = 0 by Cardan s method.

Solution. Since the term in x is missing, let us put x = 1/y in the given equation so that the transformed
equation is y3 9y + 28 = 0 ...(i)
To solve (i), put y = u + v so that y 3 3 3
3uvy (u + v ) = 0 ...(ii)
Comparing (ii) and (iii), we get uv = 3 and u3 + v3 = 28.
∴ u3, v3 are the roots of t2 + 28t + 27 = 0
or (t + 1) (t + 27) = 0 or t = 1, 27 or u = 1, v = 3
∴ y=u+v= 4. Dividing L.H.S. of (i) by y + 4, we obtain y2 4y + 7 = 0 whence y = 2 ± i 3.
∴ Roots of (i) are 4, 2 ± i 3.
1 1 1
Hence the roots of the given cubic equation are , or , (2 − i 3)/7, (2 + i 3)/7 .
4 2±i 3 4

Example 1.17. Solve the equation x3 + x2 16x + 20 = 0.

Solution. Instead of diminishing the roots of the given equation by 1/3, we first multiply its roots by 3,
so that the equation becomes
x3 + 3x2 144x + 540 = 0 ...(i)
To remove the x2 term, put y = x ( 3/3) or x = y 1 in (i)
so that (y 1)3 + 3(y 1)2 144(y 1) + 540 = 0
or y3 147y + 686 = 0 ...(ii)
To solve (iii), let y = u + v, so that
y3 3uvy (u3 + v3) = 0 ...(iii)
Comparing (ii) and (iii), we get
uv = 49, u3 + v3 = 686, so that u3 v3 = (343)2.
∴ u3, v3 are the roots of the quadratic
t2 + 686t + (343)2 = 0 or (t + 343)2 = 0
∴ t = 343 i.e., u3 = v3 = 343 or u = v = 7.
Thus y = u + v = 14 and x = y 1 = 15.
Dividing L.H.S. of (i) by x + 15, we get
(x 6)2 = 0 or x = 6, 6.
∴ The root of (i) are 15, 6, 6.
Hence the roots of the given equation are 5, 2, 2.

Example 1.18. Solve x3 3x2 + 3 = 0. (C.S.V.T.U., 2011 S)

Solution. Given equation is x3 3x2 + 3 = 0 ...(i)

To remove the x2 term, put y = x 3/3 or x = y + 1,
so that (i) becomes (y + 1)3 3(y + 1)2 + 3 = 0
or y3 3y + 1 = 0 ...(ii)
To solve it, put y = u + v
so that y3 3uvy (u3 + v3) = 0 ...(iii)
Comparing (ii) and (iii), we get uv = 1, u3 + v3 = 1
∴ u3, v3 are the roots of the equation t2 + t + 1 = 0
−1+ i 3 −1−i 3
Hence u3 = and v3 =
2 2
1/ 3
⎛ − 1 + i 3⎞ 1
∴ u= ⎜ ⎟ put = r cos θ and 3 /2 = r sin θ
⎝ 2 ⎠ 2
= [r (cos θ + i sin θ)]1/3 so that r = 1, θ = 2π/3
1/3
= [cos (θ + 2nπ) + i sin (θ + 2nπ)] ,
where n is any integer or zero. Using De Moivre s theorem (p. 647).
 SOLUTION OF EQUATIONS 11

⎛ θ + 2nπ ⎞ ⎛ θ + 2nπ ⎞
u = cos ⎜ ⎟ + i sin ⎜ ⎟
⎝ 3 ⎠ ⎝ 3 ⎠
Giving n the value 0, 1, 2 successively we get the three values of u to be
θ θ θ + 2π θ + 2π θ + 4π θ + 4π
cos+ i sin , cos + i sin , cos + i sin
3 3 3 3 3 3
2π 2π 8π 8π 14 π 14 π
i.e., cos + i sin , cos + i sin , cos + i sin .
9 9 9 9 9 9
The corresponding values of v are
2π 2π 8π 8π 14 π 14 π
cos i sin , cos i sin , cos i sin .
9 9 9 9 9 9
∴ The three values of y = u + v are 2 cos 2π/9, 2 cos 8π/9, 2 cos 14π/9.
Hence the roots of (i) are found from x = 1 + y to be
1 + 2 cos 2π/9, 1 + 2 cos 8π/9, 1 + 2 cos 14π/9.

PROBLEMS 1.3

Solve the following equations by Cardan s method :

1. x3 27 x + 54 = 0. (U.P.T.U., 2003) 2. x3 18x + 35 = 0 (C.S.V.T.U., 2012; Osmania, 2003)
3. x3 15 x = 126 (C.S.V.T.U., 2009) 4. 2x3 + 5x2 + x 2=0 (U.P.T.U., 2003)
5. 9x3 + 6x2 1=0 (C.S.V.T.U., 2008) 6. x3 6x2 + 6x 5=0
7. x3 3x + 1 = 0 (C.S.V.T.U., 2011) 8. 27x3 + 54x2 + 198x 73 = 0

1.6 SOLUTION OF BIQUADRATIC EQUATIONS

(1) Ferrari s method*
This method of solving a biquadratic equation is illustrated by the following examples :

Example 1.19. Solve the equation x4 12x3 + 41x2 18x 72 = 0 by Ferrari s method.
(C.S.V.T.U., 2011 S)
Solution. Combining x4 and x3 terms into a perfect square, the given equation can be written as
(x2 6x + λ)2 + (5 2λ)x2 + (12λ 18)x (λ2 + 72) = 0
or (x2 6x + λ)2 = {(2λ 5)x2 + (18 12λ) x + (λ2 + 72)} ...(i)
This equation can be factorised if R.H.S. is a perfect square
i.e., if (18 12λ)2 = 4(2λ 5) (λ2 + 72) [b2 = 4ac]
i.e., if 3 2
2λ 41λ + 252λ 441 = 0 which gives λ = 3.
∴ (i) reduces to (x2 6x + 3)2 = (x 9)2
i.e., (x2 5x 6) (x2 7x + 12) = 0.
Hence the roots of the given equation are 1, 3, 4 and 6.

Example 1.20. Solve the equation x4 2x3 5x2 + 10 x 3 = 0 by Ferrari s method.

Solution. Combining x4 and x3 terms into a perfect square, the given equation can be written as
(x2 x + λ)2 = (2λ + 6) x2 (2λ + 10) x + (λ2 + 3). This equation can be factorised, if R.H.S. is a perfect square i.e.,
if (2λ + 10)2 = 4(2λ + 6) (λ2 + 3) [b2 = 4ac]
or 3 2
2λ + 5λ 4λ 7 = 0, which gives λ = 1.
∴ (i) reduces to (x2 x 1)2 = 4x2 8x + 4
or (x2 x 1)2 (2x 2)2 = 0 or (x2 + x 3) (x2 3x + 1) = 0
− 1 ± 1 + 12 3± 9−4
∴ x= or
2 2
− 1 ± 13 3 ± 5
Hence the roots are , .
2 2

*Named after an Italian mathematician Scipio Ferrari, a student of Girolamo Cardan.

 12 HIGHER ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS

(2) Descarte s method

This method of solving a biquadratic equations consists in removing the term in x3 and then expressing the
new equation as product of two quadratics. It has been best illustrated by the following examples :
Example 1.21. Solve the equation x4 8x2 24x + 7 = 0 by Descarte s method. (U.P.T.U., 2001)
Solution. In the given equation, the term in x3 is already absent so we assume that
x4 8x2 24x + 7 = (x2 + px + q) (x2 px + q′) ...(i)
Equating coefficients of the like powers of x in (i), we get
8 = q + q′ p2, 24 = p(q′ q) ; 7 = qq′
∴ q + q′ = p2 8, q q′ = 24/p
∴ (p2 8)2 (24/p)2 = 4 × 7
p2 16p4 + 36p2 576 = 0 or t3 16t2 + 36t 576 = 0 where t = p2
Now t = 16 satisfies this cubic so that p = 4.
∴ q + q′ = 8, q q′ = 6 ∴ q = 7, q′ = 1
Thus (i) takes the form (x2 + 4x + 7) (x2 4x + 1) = 0
− 4 ± (16 − 28) 4 ± (16 − 4)
whence x= or x =
2 2
Hence x = 2 ± √3i, 2 ± √3.
Example 1.22. Solve the equation x4 6x3 3x2 + 22x 6 = 0 by Descarte s method.
Solution. Here sum of roots = 6 and number of roots = 4
∴ To remove the second term, we have to diminish the roots by 6/4 (= 3/2) which will be a problem.
Therefore, we first multiply the roots by 2. ∴ y4 12y3 + 12y2 + 176y 96 = 0 where y = 2x. Now diminishing
the roots by 3, we obtain z4 42z2 + 32z + 297 = 0 where z = y 3.
Assuming that z4 42z2 + 32z + 297 = (z2 + pz + q) (z2 pz + q′) ...(i)
and comparing coefficients, we get
42 = q + q′ p2 ; 32 = p (q′ q) ; 297 = q q′
∴ q + q′ = p2 42 ; q q′ = 32/p, q q′ = 297
∴ (p2 42)2 ( 32/p)2 = 4 × 297
or t3 84 t2 + 576t 1024 = 0 where t = p2
Now t = 4 satisfies this cubic so that p = 2.
∴ q + q′ = 38, q q′ = 16, ∴ q = 27, q′ = 11.
Thus (i) takes the form (z2 + 2z 27) (z2 2z 11) = 0
− 2 ± (4 + 108) 2 ± (4 + 44)
Whence z= or z =
2 2
1 1
or x= y = (z + 3) = 1 (2 ± 28 ) = 1 (4 ± 12 )
2 2 2 2
Hence x=1± 7,2± 3.

PROBLEMS 1.4
Solve by Ferrari s method, the equations :
1. x4 10x3 + 35x2 50x + 24 = 0 (U.P.T.U., 2003) 2. x4 + 2x3 7x2 8x + 12 = 0 (U.P.T.U., 2002)
3. x4 10x2 20x 16 = 0 4. x4 8x3 12x2 + 60x + 63 = 0 (U.P.T.U., 2005)
Solve the following equations by Descartes method :
5. x4 6x3 + 3x2 + 22x 6=0 6. x4 + 12x 5=0
7. x4 8x3 24x + 7 = 0 (U.P.T.U., 2001) 8. x4 10x3 + 44x2 104x + 96 = 0

Obs. We have obtained algebraic solutions of cubic and biquadratic equations. But the need often arises to solve
higher degree or transcendental equations for which no algebraic methods are available in general. Such equations can be
best solved by graphical method (explained below) or by numerical methods (§28.2).
 SOLUTION OF EQUATIONS 13

1.7 GRAPHICAL SOLUTION OF EQUATIONS

Let the equation be f(x) = 0.
(i) Find the interval (a, b) in which a root of f(x) = 0 lies.
[At least one root of f(x) = 0 lies in (a, b) if f(a) and f(b) are of opposite signs §1.2(III) p. 2].
(ii) Write the equation f(x) = 0 as φ(x) = ψ(x) where ψ(x) contains only terms in x and the constants.
(iii) Draw the graphs of y = φ(x) and y = ψ(x) on the same scale and with respect to the same axes.
(iv) Read the abscissae of the points of intersection of the curves y = φ (x) and y = ψ(x). These are required real
roots of f(x) = 0.
Sometimes it may not be convenient to write the given equation f(x) = 0 in the form φ (x) = ψ(x). In such cases, we
proceed as follows :
(i) Form a table for the value of x and y = f(x) directly.
(ii) Plot these points and pass a smooth curve through them.
(iii) Read the abscissae of the points where this curve cuts the x-axis. These are the required roots of
f(x) = 0.

Obs. The roots, thus located graphically are approximate and to improve their accuracy, the curves are replotted on
the larger scale in the immediate vicinity of each point of intersection. This gives a better approximation to the value of
desired root. The above graphical operation may be repeated until the root is obtained correct upto required number of
decimal places. But this method of repeatedly drawing graphs is very tedious. It is, therefore, advisable to improve upon
the accuracy of an approximate root by numerical method of §28.2.

Example 1.23. Find graphically an approximate value of the root of the equation.
3 x = ex 1.

Solution. Let f(x) = ex 1 + x 3 = 0 ...(i)

f(1) = 1 + 1 3 = ve
and f(2) = e + 2 3 = 2.718 1 = + ve
∴ A root of (i), lies between x = 1 and x = 2.
Let us rewrite (i) as ex 1 = 3 x. Y

The abscissa of the point of intersection of the curves 2.6

y = ex 1 ...(ii)
and y=3 x ...(iii) 2.4
will give the required root.
To plot (ii), we form the following table of values :
2.2
x= y = ex 1

1.1 1.11
2.0
1.2 1.22
1
x–
e
y=

1.3 1.35
1.8
1.4 1.49
1.5 1.65 1.6
x=1.44
1.6 1.82
1.7 2.01 1.4 y
=
3
1.8 2.23 –
x
1.9 2.46 1.2

2.0 2.72

Taking the origin at (1, 1) and 1 small unit along either 0

(1,1) 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2.0 X
axis = 0.02, we plot these points and pass a smooth curve
through them as shown in Fig. 1.2. Fig. 1.2
 14 HIGHER ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS

To draw the line (iii), we join the points (1, 2) and (2, 1) on the same scale and with the same axes.
From the figure, we get the required root to be x = 1.44 nearly.

Example 1.24. Obtain graphically an approximate value of the root of x = sin x + π/2.

Solution. Let us write the given equation as sin x = x π/2 Y

The abscissa of the point of intersection of the curve y = sin x
and the line y = x π/2 will give a rough estimate of the root.
To draw a curve y = sin x, we form the following table :

x 0 π/4 π/2 3π/4 π x x = 2.3

n
si
=
y 0 0.71 1 0.71 0 y
O
Taking 1 unit along either axis = π/4 = 0.8 nearly, we plot the 2 p
p/ p/2 3p/4 X
–
curve as shown in Fig. 1.3. =
x
y
Also we draw the line y = x π/2 to the same scale and with
the same axis.
From the graph, we get x = 2.3 radians approximately.
– p/2

Fig. 1.3

Example 1.25. Obtain graphically the lowest root of cos x cosh x = 1.

Solution. Let f(x) = cos x cosh x + 1 = 0 ...(i)

∵ f(0) = + ve, f (π/2) = + ve and f (π) = ve.
∴ The lowest root of (i) lies between x = π/2 and x = π.
Let us write (i) as cos x = sech x.
The abscissa of the point of intersection of the curves
y = cos x ...(ii) and y = sech x ...(iii)
will give the required root. To draw (ii), we form the following table of values :

x= π/2 = 1.57 3π/4 = 2.36 π = 3.14

y = cos x 0 0.71 1

Taking the origin at (1.57, 0) and 1 unit along either axes = π/8 = 0.4 nearly, we plot the cosine curve as
shown in Fig. 1.4.
Y
x = 1.57
.29 x = 2.6 x = 3.14
O
y = – sech x X

y=
cos
x

Y¢
Fig. 1.4
To draw (iii), we form the following table :

x= 1.57 2.36 3.14

cosh x = 2.58 5.56 11.12

y= sech x 0.39 0.18 0.09

SOLUTION OF EQUATIONS 15

Then we plot the curve (iii) to the same scale with the same axes.
From the figure we get the lowest root to be approximately x = 1.57 + 0.29 = 1.86.

PROBLEMS 1.5

Solve the following equations graphically :

1. x3 x 1 = 0 (Madras, 2000 S) 2. x3 3x 5 = 0
3. x3 6x2 + 9x 3 = 0. 4. tan x = 1.2 x
5. x = 3 cos (x π/4) 6. ex = 5x which is near x = 0.2.

1.8 OBJECTIVE TYPE OF QUESTIONS

PROBLEMS 1.6
Choose the correct answer or fill up the blanks in the following problems :
1. If for the equation x3 3x2 + kx + 3 = 0, one root is the negative of another, then the value of k is
(a) 3 (b) 3 (c) 1 (d) 1.
2. If the roots of the equation xn 1 = 0 are 1, α1, α2, ......, αn 1, then
(1 α1) (1 α2) ...... (1 αn 1) is equal to
(a) 0 (b) 1 (c) n (d) n + 1.
3. If α, β, γ are the roots of 2x3 3x2 + 6x + 1 = 0, then α2 + β2 + γ2 is
(a) 15/4 (b) 3 (c) 15/4 (d) 33/4.
4. x + 2 is a factor of
(a) x4 + 2 (b) x4 x2 + 12
(c) x4 2x3 x+2 (d) x4 + 2x3 x 2
5. If α + β + γ = 5 ; αβ + βγ + γα = 7 ; αβγ = 3, then the equation whose roots are α, β and γ is
(a) x3 7=0 (b) x3 7x2 + 3 = 0
(c) x3 5x2 + 7x 3=0 (d) x3 + 7x2 3 = 0.
6. If one of the roots of the equation x3 6x2 + 11x 6 = 0 is 2, then the other two roots are
(a) 1 and 3 (b) 0 and 4
(c) 1 and 5 (d) 2 and 6.
7. The equation whose roots are the reciprocals of the roots of x3 + px2 + r = 0 is
(a) x3 + 1/p.x2 + 1/r = 0 (b) 1/r . x3 + 1/p.x + 1 = 0
(c) rx3 + px2 + 1 = 0 (d) rx3 + px + 1 = 0.
8. If 1 and 2 are two roots of the equation x4 x3 19x2 + 49x 30 = 0, then the remaining two roots are
(a) 3 and 5 (b) 3 and 5
(c) 6 and 5 (d) 6 and 5.
9. If the roots of x3 3x2 + px + 1 = 0, are in arithmetic progression, then the sum of squares of the largest and the
smallest roots is
(a) 3 (b) 5 (c) 6 (d) 10.
10. A root of x3 8x2 + px + q = 0 where p and q are real numbers is 3 + i 3 . The real root is
(a) 2 (b) 6 (c) 9 (d) 12.
11. One of the roots of the equation f(x) = xn + an 1 xn 1 + ... + a1x + a0 = 0 where a0, a1, ... an 1 are real, is given to be 2 3i.
Of the remaining, the next n 2 roots are given to be 1, 2, 3, ..., n 2. The nth root is
(a) n (b) n 1 (c) 2 + 3i (d) 2 + 3i.
12. If a real root of f(x) = 0 lies in [a, b], then the sign of f(a) . f (b) is ......
13. Descartes rule of signs states that ......
14. If α, β, γ are the roots of the equation x3 px + q = 0, then Σ 1/α = ......
15. If α, β, γ are the roots of x3 = 7, then Σα3 is ......
16. One real root of the equation x3 + 2x2 + 5 = 0 lies between .......
16 HIGHER ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS

17. In an equation with real coefficients, imaginary roots must occur in ......
18. If f (α) and f(β) are of opposite signs, then f(x) = 0 has at least one root between α and β provided ......
19. If α, β, γ are the roots of the equation x3 + 2x + 3 = 0, then α + 3, β + 3, γ + 3 are the roots of the equation ......
20. If one root is double of another in x3 7x2 + 36 = 0, then its roots are ......
21. The equation whose roots are 10 times those x3 2x 7 = 0, is ......
22. If α, β, γ are the roots of x3 + px2 + qx + r = 0, then Σ (1/αβ) = ......
23. 3 and 1 + i are the roots of the biquadratic equation ......
24. If α, β, γ are the roots of x3 3x + 2 = 0, then the value of α2 + β2 + γ2 is ......
25. If there is a root of f(x) = 0 in the interval [a, b], then sign of f(a)/f(b) is ......
26. If α, β, γ are the roots of x3 + px2 + qx + r = 0, then the condition for α + β = 0 is ......
27. The three roots of x3 = 1 are ......
28. One real root of the equation x3 + x 5 = 0 lies in the interval
(i) (2, 3), (ii) (3, 4), (iii) (1, 2), (iv) ( 3, 2)
29. If two roots of x3 3x2 + 2 = 0 are equal, then its roots are ......
30. The cubic equation whose two roots are 5 and 1 i is ......
31. The sum and product of the roots of the equation x5 = 2 are ...... and .....
32. If the roots of the equation x4 + 2x3 ax2 22x + 40 = 0 are 5, 2, 1 and 4, then a = ......
33. A root of x3 3x2 + 2.5 = 0 lies between 1.1 and 1.2. (True or False)
34. The equation x6 x5 10x + 7 = 0 has four imaginary roots. (True or False)