10A

14 Polynomials
LEARNING SEQUENCE
14.1 Overview ...............................................................................................................................................................888
14.2 Polynomials ......................................................................................................................................................... 890
14.3 Adding, subtracting and multiplying polynomials ................................................................................ 894
14.4 Long division of polynomials ........................................................................................................................ 898
14.5 Polynomial values ............................................................................................................................................. 904
14.6 The remainder and factor theorems .......................................................................................................... 908
14.7 Factorising polynomials ..................................................................................................................................911
14.8 Solving polynomial equations ...................................................................................................................... 917
14.9 Review ................................................................................................................................................................... 920
14.1 Overview
Why learn this?
Just as your knowledge of numbers is learned in stages, so
too are graphs. You have been building your knowledge of
graphs and functions over time. First, you encountered linear
functions. You saw how straight lines are everywhere in
our daily lives. Then you learned about quadratic functions,
or parabolas. Again, you saw, in everyday situations, how
bridges and arches can be based on quadratic or parabolic
functions. Circles and hyperbolas are other functions that you
have studied. A polynomial is an algebraic expression with
integer powers that are greater than or equal to zero, such as
a parabola. Polynomial functions are represented by smooth
and continuous curves. They can be used to model situations in
many different fields, including business, science, architecture,
design and engineering. An engineer and designer would use
polynomials to model the curves on a rollercoaster. Economists
use polynomials to model changes and fluctuations in the
stock market. Scientists and researchers use polynomials when
looking at changes in the behaviour of objects in different
circumstances. Designers and architects incorporate polynomial
functions in many areas of their designs in buildings and in
landscaping. This topic introduces the building blocks of
polynomials.

Where to get help

Go to your learnON title at www.jacplus.com.au to access the following digital resources. The Online
Resources Summary at the end of this topic provides a full list of what’s available to help you learn the
concepts covered in this topic.

Fully worked
Video Interactivities
solutions
eLessons
to every
question

Digital
eWorkbook
documents

888 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

Exercise 14.1 Pre-test
Complete this pre-test in your learnON title at www.jacplus.com.au and receive automatic marks,
immediate corrective feedback and fully worked solutions.
1. State the degree of the following polynomials.

a. 3x2 − 5x + 1 b. 2x3 − 4x2 + 3x x+7

1
c. d. 4
2

x +x
2. MC Choose which of the following is a polynomial.

B. x−2 − 7 C. −x2 + 3 x D. 6x4 − E. 2x − 5x + 1

3 √ √ 1
A.
2 x

3. If x2 + 4x − 2 ≡ (x + 1) + a (x − 1) + b, determine the values of a and b.

2

Select the expanded and simplified expression of (2x) (−3x) (x + 1).

A. −6x3 + 1 B. −6x2 + 1 C. −6x2 − 6x D. −6x3 − 6x2 E. 6x3 + 1
4. MC

Select the expanded and simplified expression for (1 − 2x) (3 − x) (4x + 1) (x − 5).
A. 8x4 − 66x3 + 135x2 − 22x − 15 B. 8x4 − 66x3 + 135x2 − 12x − 10
5. MC

C. 9x − 66x + 135x − 8x − 10 D. 8x3 − 66x2 + 135x2 − 22x − 15

E. 8x − 66x + 165x − 22x − 15
4 2 2
5 2 2

6. Consider the polynomial −3x3 + 2x2 + 4x − 1. State:

a. the degree of the polynomial b. the leading coefficient
c. the value of the constant term d. the coefficient of x2 .

Select the simplified expression for (x6 + 2x3 + 3x + 1) − (x5 − 2x2 + 4x − 2).
A. x6 − x5 + 2x3 + 2x2 − x + 3 B. 2x3 + 2x2 − 2x + 3 C. x6 − x5 + 4x3 − x + 3
7. MC

D. x − x + 2x + 2x − 3x
6 5 3 2
E. 4x − 2x + 3
5

8. Calculate the quotient when x3 + 2x2 + x − 1 is divided by x + 1.

9. Determine the remainder when x3 − x2 + 4x − 3 is divided by x − 2.

10. If P(x) = 3x4 − 2x3 + x2 − 4x + 8, calculate P (−1).

If P(x) = x3 − x2 + x + 1, select the value of P(x + 1):

A. x + 2x2 + 5x + 4 B. 2x + 3 C. x3 + 4x2 + 5x + 4
11. MC

D. x3 + 3x2 + 3x + 1 E. x3 + 2x2 + 2x + 2
3

12. When x3 − 2x2 + bx + 3 is divided by x − 1 the remainder is 4. Calculate the value of b.

Select the correct factor for x3 − x2 − 5x − 3:

B. x + 1 C. x − 1 D. x + 3 E. x − 5
13. MC

A. x

Select the factorised from of x3 + 4x2 + x − 6.

A. (x + 1)(x − 2)(x + 3) B. (x + 1)(x − 2)(x − 3) C. (x − 1)(x + 2)(x + 3)
14. MC

D. (x − 1)(x − 2)(x − 3) E. (x − 1)(x + 2)(x − 3)

15. Evaluate the correct value of x, for 2x3 + 15x2 + 19x + 6 = 0.

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 889

 14.2 Polynomials
LEARNING INTENTION
At the end of this subtopic you should be able to:
• identify polynomial expressions
• state the degree, leading term and leading coefficient of a polynomial.

14.2.1 Polynomials
eles-4975
A polynomial in x, sometimes denoted P(x), is an expression containing only non‐negative integer powers of x.
• The degree of a polynomial in x is the highest power of x in the expression.

3x + 1
For example:

+ 4x − 7
is a polynomial of degree 1, or linear polynomial.
x2 is a polynomial of degree 2, or quadratic polynomial.
−5x3 +
x
is a polynomial of degree 3, or cubic polynomial.
2
10 is a polynomial of degree 0 (think of 10 as 10x0 ).
• Expressions containing a term similar to any of the following terms are not polynomials:

x−2 ,
1 √
, x, 2x , sin x, and so on.
x

For example, the following are not polynomials.

3x2 − 4x + − 5x4 + x3 − 2 x x2 + sin x + 1

2 √
x

• In the expression 6x3 + 13x2 − x + 1

x is the variable.
6 is the coefficient of x3 .

−1 is the coefficient of x.
13 is the coefficient of x2 .

6x3 , 13x2 , −x and +1 are all terms.

The constant term is +1.
The degree of the polynomial is 3.
• The leading term is 6x3 because it is the term that contains the highest power of x.
• The leading coefficient is 6.
• Any polynomial with a leading coefficient of 1 is called monic.

890 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

WORKED EXAMPLE 1 Identifying degrees and variables of polynomials

Answer the following questions.

i. State the degree of each of the following polynomials.

a. x3 + 3x2 + x − 5 b. y4 + 4y3 − 8y2 + 2y − 8 c. a3 + 34a6 − 12a − 72

ii. State the variable for each of the following polynomials.

In the expression x3 + 3x2 + x − 5, the

THINK WRITE
a. i. Determine the highest power of x in the a. i.
expression. highest power of x is 3. Therefore, this
polynomial is of degree 3.
ii. Determine the variable (unknown ii. x is the variable in this expression.

In the expression y4 + 4y3 − 8y2 + 2y − 8

quantity) in the expression.
b. i. Determine the highest power of y in the b. i.
expression. the highest power of y is 4. Therefore,
this polynomial is of degree 4.
ii. Determine the variable (unknown ii. y is the variable in this expression.

In the expression a3 + 34a6 − 12a − 72,

quantity) in the expression.
c. i. Determine the highest power of a in the c. i.
expression. the highest power of a is 6. Therefore,
this polynomial is of degree 6.
ii. Determine the variable (unknown ii. a is the variable in this expression.
quantity) in the expression.

WORKED EXAMPLE 2 Determining coefficients and terms of polynomials

Consider the polynomial P(x) = 3x4 − 5x3 + 2x2 + x − 12

a. State the degree and variable of the polynomial.
b. State the coefficient of x3 .
c. State the value of the constant term.
d. Determine the term that has a coefficient of 2.
e. Determine the leading term.

THINK WRITE
a. Determine the highest power of x and a. The highest power of x is 4 and therefore, the
the variable (unknown quantity) in the degree is 4.

b. The coefficient in the term −5x3 is −5.

expression. x is the variable in this expression.
b. Determine the term with x3 in the

c. The value of the constant term is −12.

expression.
c. Determine the term without variable in
the expression.
d. Determine the term that has a coefficient d. The term that has a coefficient of 2 is 2x2 .
of 2 in the expression.
e. Determine the term that contains the e. The leading term is 3x4 .
highest power of x in the expression.

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 891

greenhouse of length L and height x can be approximated by the polynomial S(x) = 𝜋x2 + L𝜋x − 4.
An example where polynomials are useful is in the construction of a greenhouse. The surface area, S, of a

Resources
Resourceseses
eWorkbook Topic 14 Workbook (worksheets, code puzzle and project) (ewbk-2040)
Interactivity Degrees of polynomials (int-6203)

Exercise 14.2 Polynomials

Individual pathways
PRACTISE CONSOLIDATE MASTER
1, 4, 5, 8, 11, 14 2, 6, 9, 12, 15 3, 7, 10, 13, 16

To answer questions online and to receive immediate feedback and sample responses for every question, go to
your learnON title at www.jacplus.com.au.

Fluency
WE1 For questions 1 to 3, answer the following questions.
i. State the degree of each of the following polynomials.

1. a. x3 − 9x2 + 19x + 7 b. 65 + 2x7 c. 3x2 − 8 + 2x

ii. State the variable for each of the following polynomials.

2. a. x6 − 3x5 + 2x4 + 6x + 1 b. y8 + 7y3 − 5 u − + 2u − 6

1 5 u4
c.
2 3

3. a. 18 − b. 2g − 3 c. 1.5f 6 − 800f
e5
6
4. Identify the polynomials in questions 1 to 3 that are:
a. linear b. quadratic c. cubic d. monic.

892 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

For questions 5 to 7, state whether each of the following is a polynomial (P) or not (N).

5. a. 7x + 6x2 + b. 33 − 4p +x
5 x2
c.
x 9

6. a. 3x4 − 2x3 − 3 x−4 b. k−2 + k − 3k3 + 7 c. 5r − r9 +

√ 1
3
4c6 − 3c3 + 1
7. a. b. 2x − 8x + 1 c. sin x + x2
2

Understanding
8. WE2 Consider the polynomial P(x) = −2x3 + 4x2 + 3x + 5.
a. State the degree of the polynomial. b. State the variable.
c. State the coefficient of x2 . d. State the value of the constant term.
e. State the term that has a coefficient of 3. f. Determine the leading term.

9. Consider the polynomial P(w) = 6w7 + 7w6 − 9.

a. State the degree of the polynomial. b. State the variable.
c. State the coefficient of w6 . d. Determine the coefficient of w.
e. State the value of the constant term. f. State the term that has a coefficient of 6.

10. Consider the polynomial f(x) = 4 − x2 + x4 .

a. State the degree of the polynomial. b. State the coefficient of x4 .
c. Determine the leading term. d. State the leading coefficient.

Reasoning

a. 7x + 2x2 − 8x + 15 + 4x3 − 9x + 3
11. Write the following polynomials as simply as possible, arranging terms in descending powers of x.

b. x2 − 8x3 + 3x4 − 2x2 + 7x + 5x3 − 7

c. x3 − 5x2 − 11x − 1 + 4x3 − 2x + x2 − 5

12. A sports scientist determines the following equation for the velocity of a breaststroke swimmer during one
complete stroke:

v(t) = 63.876t6 − 247.65t5 + 360.39t4 − 219.41t3 + 53.816t2 + 0.4746t.

a. Determine the degree of the polynomial.

b. State the variable.
c. State the number of terms that are there.
d. Use a graphics calculator or graphing software to draw
the graph of this polynomial.
e. Match what happens during one complete stroke with
points on the graph.

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 893

 13. The distance travelled by a body after t seconds is given by d(t) = t3 + 2t2 − 4t + 5. Using a graphing
calculator or suitable computer software, draw a graph of the above motion for 0 ≤ t ≤ 3.
Use the graph to help you answer the following:
a. State what information the constant term gives.
b. Evaluate the position of the body after 1 second.
c. Describe in words the motion in the first 2 second.

14. If x2 − 3x + 5 = x2 + (a + b) x + (a − b), determine the values of a and b.

Problem solving

15. If x2 + 2x − 1 ≡ (x − 1) + a(x + 1) + b, evaluate a and b.

2

16. If x3 + 9x2 + 12x + 7 ≡ x3 + (ax + b) + 3, evaluate a and b.

2

14.3 Adding, subtracting and multiplying polynomials

LEARNING INTENTION
At the end of this subtopic you should be able to:
• add, subtract and multiply polynomial expressions.

14.3.1 Operations with polynomials

eles-4976
• To add or subtract polynomials, simply add or subtract any like terms in the expressions.

WORKED EXAMPLE 3 Simplifying polynomial expressions

a. (5x3 + 3x2 − 2x − 1) + (x4 + 5x2 − 4) b. (5x3 + 3x2 − 2x − 1) − (x4 + 5x2 − 4)

Simplify each of the following.

a. (5x3 + 3x2 − 2x − 1) + (x4 + 5x2 − 4)

THINK WRITE

= 5x3 + 3x2 − 2x − 1 + x4 + 5x2 − 4

a. 1. Write the expression.
2. Remove any grouping symbols,

= x4 + 5x3 + 3x2 + 5x2 − 2x − 1 − 4

watching any signs.
3. Re-order the terms with descending degrees

= x4 + 5x3 + 8x2 − 2x − 5
of x.
4. Simplify by collecting like terms.

b. (5x3 + 3x2 − 2x − 1) − (x4 + 5x2 − 4)

= 5x3 + 3x2 − 2x − 1 − x4 − 5x2 + 4
b. 1. Write the expression.
2. Remove any grouping symbols,

= −x4 + 5x3 + 3x2 − 5x2 − 2x − 1 + 4

watching any signs.
3. Re-order the terms with descending degrees

= −x4 + 5x3 − 2x2 − 2x + 3

of x.
4. Simplify by collecting like terms.

894 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

TI | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE CASIO | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE
a–b. a–b. a–b. a–b.
In a new document, on a On the Main screen, tap:
Calculator page, press: • Action
• MENU • Transformation
• 1: Actions • simplify

simplify ((5x3 + 3x2 − 2x − 1)

• 1: Define Complete the entry lines as:

+(x4 + 5x2 − 4))

Complete the entry lines as:

p1(x) = 5x3 + 3x2 − 2x − 1 simplify ((5x3 + 3x2 − 2x − 1)

Define

−(x4 + 5x2 − 4))

p2(x) = x4 + 5x2 − 4 p1(x) + p2(x)
Define

p1(x) + p2(x) x4 + 5x3 + 8x2 − 2x − 5

= x4 + 5x3 + 8x2 − 2x − 5
Press EXE after each entry.

p1(x) − p2(x) −x4 + 5x3 − 2x2 − 2x + 3

p1(x) − p2(x)
= −x4 + 5x3 − 2x2 − 2x + 3
Press ENTER after each
entry.

• To expand linear factors, for example (x + 1)(x + 2)(x − 7), use FOIL from quadratic expansions.

WORKED EXAMPLE 4 Expanding polynomial expressions

a. x(x + 2)(x − 3) b. (x − 1)(x + 5)(x + 2).

Expand and simplify:

a. x(x + 2)(x − 3)
THINK WRITE
a. 1. Write the expression.

= x(x2 − 3x + 2x − 6)
= x(x2 − x − 6)
2. Expand the last two linear factors, using
FOIL and simplify

3. Multiply the expression in brackets by x. = x3 − x2 − 6x

b. 1. Write the expression. b. (x − 1)(x + 5)(x + 2)

2. Expand the last two linear factors, using = (x − 1)(x2 + 2x + 5x + 10)

FOIL, and simplify
= (x − 1) x2 + 7x + 10
( )

by x and then by −1. = x3 + 7x2 + 10x − x2 − 7x − 10

3. Multiply the expression in the second bracket

4. Collect like terms. = x3 + 6x2 + 3x − 10

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 895

 TI | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE CASIO | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE
a–b. a–b. a–b. a–b.
On a Calculator page, On the Main screen,
press: tap:
• MENU • Action
• 3: Algebra • Transformation
• 3: Expand • expand
Complete the entry Complete the entry
lines as: lines as:

(x × (x + 2) × (x − 3)) (x × (x + 2) × (x − 3))
expand expand

x(x + 2)(x − 3) = x3 − x2 − 6x
(x × (x − 1) × (x + 5) × (x − 1)(x + 5)(x + 2) = x3 + 6x2 ((x − 1) × (x + 5) ×
expand expand

(x + 2)) + 3x − 10 (x + 2))
x(x + 2)(x − 3) = x3 − x2 − 6x
Press ENTER after each Press EXE after each

(x − 1)(x + 5)(x + 2) = x3 + 6x2

entry. entry.

+ 3x − 10
On the TI, the
multiplication sign is
displayed as a dot.

Resources
Resourceseses
eWorkbook Topic 14 Workbook (worksheets, code puzzle and project) (ewbk-2040)
Digital document SkillSHEET Expanding the product of two linear factors (doc-5366)
Interactivity Adding and subtracting polynomials (int-6204)

Exercise 14.3 Adding, subtracting and multiplying polynomials

Individual pathways
PRACTISE CONSOLIDATE MASTER
1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 13, 16 2, 4, 6, 10, 14, 17 8, 11, 12, 15, 18

To answer questions online and to receive immediate feedback and sample responses for every question, go to
your learnON title at www.jacplus.com.au.

Fluency

a. (x + x3 − x2 + 4) + (x3 − 14) b. (x6 + x4 − 3x3 + 6x2 ) + (x4 + 3x2 + 5)

1. WE3a Simplify each of the following.

c. (x3 + x2 + 2x − 4) + (4x3 − 6x2 + 5x − 9) d. (2x4 − 3x3 + 7x2 + 9) + (6x3 + 5x2 − 4x + 5)

4

e. (15x − 3x + 4x − 7) + (x − 2x + 3x − 4x − 3)
4 2 5 4 2

a. (x4 + x3 + 4x2 + 5x + 5) − (x3 + 2x2 + 3x + 1) b. (x6 + x3 + 1) − (x5 − x2 − 1)

2. WE3b Simplify each of the following.

c. (5x + 6x − 4x + 8x + 5x − 3) − (6x + 8x − 3) d. (10x4 − 5x2 + 16x + 11) − (2x2 − 4x + 6)

e. (6x3 + 5x2 − 7x + 12) − (4x3 − x2 + 3x − 3)
7 5 3 2 5 2

896 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

 x(x + 6)(x + 1)
3. WE4a Expand and simplify each of the following.

x(x − 9)(x + 2)
a.

x(x − 3)(x + 11)

b.

2x(x + 2)(x + 3)
c.

−3x(x − 4)(x + 4)
d.
e.

a. 5x(x + 8)(x + 2) b. x2 (x + 4) c. −2x2 (7 − x)

4. Expand and simplify each of the following.

d. (5x)(−6x)(x + 9) e. −7x(x + 4)
2

5. a. (x + 7)(x + 2)(x + 3) b. (x − 2)(x + 4)(x − 5) c. (x − 1)(x − 4)(x + 8)

WE4b For questions 5 to 10, expand and simplify each of the following.

d. (x − 1)(x − 2)(x − 3) e. (x + 6)(x − 1)(x + 1)

6. a. (x − 7)(x + 7)(x + 5) b. (x + 11)(x + 5)(x − 12) c. (x + 5)(x − 1)

d. (x + 2)(x − 7) e. (x + 1)(x − 1)(x + 1)
2
2

7. a. (x − 2)(x + 7)(x + 8) b. (x + 5)(3x − 1)(x + 4) c. (4x − 1)(x + 3)(x − 3)(x + 1)

d. (5x + 3)(2x − 3)(x − 4) e. (1 − 6x)(x + 7)(x + 5)

8. a. 3x(7x − 4)(x − 4)(x + 2) b. −9x(1 − 2x)(3x + 8) c. (6x + 5)(2x − 7)

d. (3 − 4x)(2 − x)(5x + 9)(x − 1) e. 2(7 + 2x)(x + 3)(x + 4)
2

Understanding
9. a. (x + 2) b. (x + 5) c. (x − 1)
3 3 3

10. a. (x − 3) b. (2x − 6) c. (3x + 4)

4 3 4

11. Simplify the expression 2(ax + b) − 5(c − bx).

12. Expand and simplify the expression (x + a)(x − b)(x2 − 3bx + 2a).

13. If (x − 3) = ax4 + bx3 + cx2 + dx + e, determine the values of a, b, c, d and e. Show your working.
Reasoning
4

14. Simplify the expression (2x − 3) − (4 − 3x) .

3 2

3(x − 1)
and a cuboid whose sides are x, (x + 1)
and (2x + 1). Show your working.
15. Determine the difference in volume between a cube of side
2

5x + 1
Problem solving

≡ +
(x − 1) (x + 2) (x − 1) (x + 2)
a b
16. Determine the values of the pronumerals a and b if:

5x − 7
≡ + + .
(x − 1)(x + 1)(x − 2) (x − 1) (x + 1) (x − 2)
a b c
17. Evaluate the constants a, b and c if:

3x − 5 ax + b
+
(x + 1)(x − 1) (x + 1) (x − 1)
c
18. Write in the form 2 and hence determine the values of a, b and c.
2

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 897

 14.4 Long division of polynomials
LEARNING INTENTION
At the end of this subtopic you should be able to:
• divide polynomials by linear expressions using long division
• determine the quotient and remainder when dividing polynomials by linear expressions.

14.4.1 Long division of polynomials

eles-4977
• The reverse of expanding is factorising (expressing a polynomial as a product of its linear factors).
• To factorise polynomials we need to use a form of long division.
• The following steps show how to divide a polynomial by a linear factor using long division.

Consider x3 + 2x2 − 13x + 10 ÷ (x − 3).

( )

Step 1 Write the division out using long division notation.

x – 3 x3 + 2x2 – 13x + 10
Step 2 Consider the leading terms only. Determine how many times x
x – 3 x3 + 2x2 – 13x + 10
goes into x3 .
Step 3 x into x3 goes x2 times. Write x2 above the x2 term of the x2
polynomial.
Multiply the term at the top x2 by the linear factor (x − 3):
x – 3 x3 + 2x2 – 13x + 10
( )

x2 × (x − 3) = x3 − 3x2 .
Step 4 x2
x – 3 x3 + 2x2 – 13x + 10
Write the result beneath the first two terms of the polynomial.
x3 – 3x2
Step 5 Subtract the first two terms of the polynomial by the terms x2

x3 − x3 = 0 and 2x2 − −3x2 = 5x2

written below them. ( ) x – 3 x3 + 2x2 – 13x + 10
x3 – 3x2
5x2
Step 6 Bring the next term of the polynomial down to sit next to 5x2 . x2
x − 3 x + 2x2 − 13x + 10
3

x3 − 3x2
5x2 − 13x

• The process now restarts, looking at the newly created 5x2 − 13x expression.

898 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

Step 7 Consider the leading terms only. Determine how x2
many times x goes into 5x2 . x − 3 x3 + 2x2 − 13x + 10
x3 − 3x2
5x2 − 13x
Step 8 x into 5x2 goes 5x times. Write 5x above the x term of x2 + 5x
the polynomial. x − 3 x3 + 2x2 − 13x + 10
x3 − 3x2
5x2 − 13x

(x − 3): 5x × (x − 3) = 5x2 − 15x.

Step 9 Multiply the term at the top (5x) by the linear factor x2 + 5x
x – 3 x3 + 2x2 – 13x + 10
Write the result beneath the two terms written in
x3 – 3x2
step 6.
5x2 – 13x
5x2 – 15x
Step 10 Subtract the two terms of the polynomial by the terms x2 + 5x

5x2 − 5x2 = 0 and (−13x) − (−15x) = 2x

written below them. x – 3 x3 + 2x2 – 13x + 10
x3 – 3x2
5x2 – 13x
5x2 – 15x
2x
Step 11 Bring the next term of the polynomial down to sit x2 + 5x
next to 2x. x − 3 x 2x2 − 13x + 10
3+

x3 − 3x2
5x2 − 13x
5x2 − 15x
2x + 10

• Once again the process restarts, looking at the newly created 2x + 10 expression.

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 899

 Step 12 Consider the leading terms only.
x2 + 5x
Determine how many times x goes
into 2x. x − 3 x 2x2 − 13x + 10
3+

x3 − 3x2
5x2 − 13x
5x2 − 15x
2x + 10
Step 13 x into 2x goes 2 times. Write 2 above the
x2 + 5x + 2
constant term of the polynomial.
x − 3 x 2x2 − 13x + 10
3+

x3 − 3x2
5x2 − 13x
5x2 − 15x
2x + 10

linear factor (x − 3): 2 × (x − 3) = 2x − 6.

Step 14 Multiply the term at the top (2) by the
x2 + 5x + 2
Write the result beneath the two terms x − 3 x + 2x2 − 13x + 10
3

written in step 11. x3 − 3x2

5x2 − 13x
5x2 − 15x
2x + 10
2x – 6
Step 15 Subtract the two terms of the polynomial

2x − 2x = 0 and 10 − (−6) = 16
x2 + 5x + 2
by the terms written below them.
x − 3 x3 + 2x2 − 13x + 10
x3 − 3x2
5x2 − 13x
5x2 − 15x
2x + 10
2x – 6
16
Step 16 The division is now complete!
x2 + 5x + 2 Quotient
The top line is the quotient (Q), and the
bottom number is the remainder (R). x − 3 x3 + 2x2 − 13x + 10
x3 − 3x2
5x2 − 13x
5x2 − 15x
2x + 10
2x − 6

+ 2x2 − 13x + 10) ÷ (x − 3) = x2 + 5x + 2 remainder 16

16 Remainder
Write the answer: (x3

900 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

WORKED EXAMPLE 5 Performing long division of cubic polynomials

a. x3 + 3x2 + x + 9 ÷ (x + 2)
Perform
( the following
) long divisions and state the quotient and remainder.

b. x3 − 4x2 − 7x − 5 ÷ (x − 1)
( )

c. 2x3 + 6x2 − 3x + 2 ÷ (x − 6)
( )

THINK WRITE
a. 1. Write the question in long division format. a. x2 +x−1 Q
2. Perform the long division process. x + 2 x3 + 3x2 +x+9
x3 + 2x2
x2 +x
x2 + 2x
−x + 9
−x − 2
11 R

3. Write the quotient and remainder. Quotient is x2 + x − 1; remainder is 11.

b. 1. Write the question in long division format. b. x2 − 3x − 10 Q

2. Perform the long division process. x − 1 x3 − 4x2 − 7x − 5
x3 − x2
−3x2 − 7x
−3x2 + 3x
−10x − 5
−10x + 10
−15 R

3. Write the quotient and remainder. Quotient is x2 − 3x − 10; remainder is −15.

c. 1. Write the question in long division format. c. 2x2 + 18x + 105 Q

2. Perform the long division process. x − 6 2x3 + 6x2 − 3x + 2
2x3 − 12x2
18x2 − 3x
18x2 − 108x
105x + 2
105x − 630
632 R

3. Write the quotient and remainder. Quotient is 2x2 + 18x + 105; remainder is 632.

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 901

 WORKED EXAMPLE 6 Determining the quotient and remainder of a degree 4 polynomial

Determine the quotient and the remainder when x4 − 3x3 + 2x2 − 8 is divided by the linear
expression x + 2.

THINK WRITE
1. Set out the long division with each polynomial in
descending powers of x. If one of the powers of x x + 2 x4 − 3x3 + 2x2 + 0x − 8
is missing, include it with 0 as the coefficient.
2. Divide x into x4 and write the result above. x3
x + 2 x4 − 3x3 + 2x2 + 0x − 8
3. Multiply the result x3 by x + 2 and write the x3
result underneath. x + 2 x4 − 3x3 + 2x2 + 0x − 8
x4 + 2x3
4. Subtract and bring down the remaining terms to x3
complete the expression. x + 2 x4 − 3x3 + 2x2 + 0x − 8
x4 + 2x3
−5x3 + 2x2 + 0x − 8
5. Divide x into −5x3 and write the result above. x3 − 5x2 + 12x − 24
6. Continue this process to complete the long x + 2 x4 − 3x3 + 2x2 + 0x − 8
division. x4 + 2x3
−5x3 + 2x2 + 0x − 8
−5x3 − 10x2
12x2 + 0x − 8
12x2 + 24x
−24x − 8
−24x − 48
40

7. The polynomial x3 − 5x2 + 12x − 24, at the top, is The quotient is x3 − 5x2 + 12x − 24.
the quotient.
8. The result of the final subtraction, 40, is the The remainder is 40.
remainder.

Resources
Resourceseses
eWorkbook Topic 14 Workbook (worksheets, code puzzle and project) (ewbk-2040)
Interactivity Long division of polynomials (int-2793)

902 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

Exercise 14.4 Long division of polynomials
Individual pathways
PRACTISE CONSOLIDATE MASTER
1, 3, 5, 9, 14, 17 2, 4, 7, 10, 12, 15, 18 6, 8, 11, 13, 16, 19

To answer questions online and to receive immediate feedback and sample responses for every question, go to
your learnON title at www.jacplus.com.au.

Fluency

a. (x + 4x2 + 4x + 9) ÷ (x + 2) b. (x3 + 2x2 + 4x + 1) ÷ (x + 1)

1. WE5a Perform the following long divisions and state the quotient and remainder.

c. (x3 + 6x2 + 3x + 1) ÷ (x + 3) d. (x3 + 3x2 + x + 3) ÷ (x + 4)

3

a. (x3 + 6x2 + 2x + 2) ÷ (x + 2) b. (x3 + x2 + x + 3) ÷ (x + 1)

2. Perform the following long divisions and state the quotient and remainder.

c. (x3 + 8x2 + 5x + 4) ÷ (x + 8) d. (x3 + x2 + 4x + 1) ÷ (x + 2)

a. (x + 2x2 − 5x − 9) ÷ (x − 2) b. (x3 + x2 + x + 9) ÷ (x − 3)
3. WE5b State the quotient and remainder for each of the following.

c. (x3 + x2 − 9x − 5) ÷ (x − 2) d. (x3 − 4x2 + 10x − 2) ÷ (x − 1)

3

a. (x3 − 5x2 + 3x − 8) ÷ (x − 3) b. (x3 − 7x2 + 9x − 7) ÷ (x − 1)

4. State the quotient and remainder for each of the following.

c. (x3 + 9x2 + 2x − 1) ÷ (x − 5) d. (x3 + 4x2 − 5x − 4) ÷ (x − 4)

5. a. 3x3 − x2 + 6x + 5, x + 2 b. 4x3 − 4x2 + 10x − 4, x + 1

WE5c For questions 5 to 8, divide the first polynomial by the second and state the quotient and remainder.

c. 2x3 − 7x2 + 9x + 1, x − 2

6. a. 2x3 + 8x2 − 9x − 1, x + 4 b. 4x3 − 10x2 − 9x + 8, x − 3

c. 3x3 + 16x2 + 4x − 7, x + 5

7. a. 6x3 − 7x2 + 4x + 4, 2x − 1 b. 6x3 + 23x2 + 2x − 31, 3x + 4

c. 8x3 + 6x2 − 39x − 13, 2x + 5

8. a. 2x3 − 15x2 + 34x − 13, 2x − 7 b. 3x3 + 5x2 − 16x − 23, 3x + 2

c. 9x3 − 6x2 − 5x + 9, 3x − 4

Understanding

−x3 − 6x2 − 7x − 16 −3x3 + 7x2 + 10x − 15

For questions 9 to 11, state the quotient and remainder for each of the following.

x+1 x−3
9. a. b.

−2x3 + 9x2 + 17x + 15 4x3 − 20x2 + 23x − 2

2x + 1 −2x + 3
c. d.

10. a. (x3 − 3x + 1) ÷ (x + 1) b. (x3 + 2x2 − 7) ÷ (x + 2)

c. (x3 − 5x2 + 2x) ÷ (x − 4) d. (−x3 − 7x + 8) ÷ (x − 1)

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 903

 11. a. (5x2 + 13x + 1) ÷ (x + 3) b. (2x3 + 8x2 − 4) ÷ (x + 5)
c. (−2x3 − x + 2) ÷ (x − 2) d. (− 4x3 + 6x2 + 2x) ÷ (2x + 1)

12. WE6 Determine the quotient and the remainder when each polynomial is divided by the linear

x4 + x3 + 3x2 − 7x, x − 1 b. x4 − 13x2 + 36, x − 2

expression given.

x5 − 3x3 + 4x + 3, x + 3
a.
c.

a. 2x6 − x4 + x3 + 6x2 − 5x, x + 2 b. 6x4 − x3 + 2x2 − 4x, x − 3

13. Determine the quotient and the remainder when each polynomial is divided by the linear expression given.

c. 3x4 − 6x3 + 12x, 3x + 1

Reasoning

3x4 − 6x3 + 12x + a is divided by 3x + 6. Show your working.

14. Determine the quotient and remainder when

15. Determine the quotient and remainder when ax2 + bx + c is

divided by (x − d). Show your working.

(x + p) cm. The cake was divided between (x − p) guests. The

16. A birthday cake in the shape of a cube had side length

left-over cake was used for lunch the next day. There were
q3 guests for lunch the next day and each received c3 cm3 of
cake, which was then all finished.
Determine an expression for q in terms of p and c. Show
your working.

17. When x3 − 2x2 + 4x + a is divided by x − 1 the remainder is zero. Use long division to determine the
Problem solving

value of a.
18. When x3 + 3x2 + a is divided by x + 1, the remainder is 8. Use long division to determine the value of a.

19. When 2x2 + ax + b is divided by x − 1 the remainder is zero but when 2x2 + ax + b is divided by x − 2 the
remainder is 9. Use long division to determine the value of the pronumerals a and b.

14.5 Polynomial values

LEARNING INTENTION
At the end of this subtopic you should be able to:
• determine the value of a polynomial for a given value.

14.5.1 Polynomial values

• Consider the polynomial P(x) = x3 − 5x2 + x + 1.
• The value of the polynomial when x = 3 is denoted by P(3) and P(3) = (3)3 − 5(3)2 + (3) + 1
eles-4978

is found by substituting x = 3 into the equation in place of x, P(3) = 27 − 5(9) + 3 + 1

P(3) = 27 − 45 + 4
P(3) = −14
as shown.

904 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

WORKED EXAMPLE 7 Evaluating polynomials for values of x

If P (x) = 2x3 + x2 − 3x − 4, determine the value of:

a. P(1) b. P(−2) c. P(a) d. P(2b) e. P(x + 1).

a. P(x) = 2x3 + x2 − 3x − 4
THINK WRITE
a. 1. Write the expression.

2. Replace x with 1. P(1) = 2(1)3 + (1)2 − 3(1) − 4

=2+1−3−4
= −4
3. Simplify and write the answer.

b. 1. Write the expression. b. P(x) = 2x3 + x2 − 3x − 4

2. Replace x with −2. P(−2) = 2(−2)3 + (−2)2 − 3(−2) − 4
= 2 (−8) + (4) + 6 − 4
= −16 + 4 + 6 − 4
3. Simplify and write the answer.

= −10

c. P(x) = 2x3 + x2 − 3x − 4
P(a) = 2a3 + a2 − 3a − 4
c. 1. Write the expression.
2. Replace x with a.
3. No further simplification is

d. P(x) = 2x3 + x2 − 3x − 4
possible.

P(2b) = 2(2b)3 + (2b)2 − 3(2b) − 4

d. 1. Write the expression.
2. Replace x with 2b.

= 2 8b3 + 4b2 − 6b + 4
( )

= 16b3 + 4b2 − 6b + 4
3. Simplify and write the answer.

e. P(x) = 2x3 + x2 − 3x − 4
2. Replace x with (x + 1). P(x + 1) = 2(x + 1)3 + (x + 1)2 − 3(x + 1) − 4
e. 1. Write the expression.

= 2 (x + 1) (x + 1) (x + 1) + (x + 1) (x + 1) − 3 (x + 1) − 4
= 2 (x
( 3+ 1) x2 + 2x +2 1 + x +)2x +2 1 − 3x − 3 − 4
3. Expand the right-hand side
( 2 ) 2

= 2 (x + 2x + x + x )+ 2x + 1 + x − x − 6
and collect like terms.

= 2 x3 + 3x2 + 3x + 1 + x2 − x − 6
= 2x3 + 6x2 + 6x + 2 + x2 − x − 6
4. Write the answer. = 2x3 + 7x2 + 5x − 4

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 905

 TI | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE CASIO | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE
a–e. a–e. a–e. a–e.
On a Calculator page, press: On the Main screen, tap:
• MENU • Action
• 1: Actions • Command
• 1: Define • Define
Complete the entry lines as: Complete the entry lines as:

p(x) = 2x3 + x2 − 3x − 4 p(x) = 2x3 + x2 − 3x − 4

Define Define

p(1) p(1)

P(1) = −4
p(−2) p(−2)

P(−2) = −10
p(a) p(a)

p(x + 1) p(x + 1)
p(2b) p(2b)
P(a) = 2a3 + a2 − 3a − 4
expand (p(x + 1)) P(1) = −4
P(2b) = 16b3 + 4b2 − 6b − 4
Press ENTER after each
P(−2) = −10
P(x + 1) = 2x3 + 7x2 + 5x − 4
entry. Press EXE after each entry.

P(a) = 2a3 + a2 − 3a − 4
P(2b) = 16b3 + 4b2 − 6b − 4
P(x + 1) = 2x3 + 7x2 + 5x − 4

Resources
Resourceseses
eWorkbook Topic 14 Workbook (worksheets, code puzzle and project) (ewbk-2040)
Digital document SkillSHEET Substitution into quadratic equations (doc-5367)

Exercise 14.5 Polynomial values

Individual pathways
PRACTISE CONSOLIDATE MASTER
1, 3, 7, 11, 12, 15 2, 5, 8, 9, 13, 16 4, 6, 10, 14, 17

To answer questions online and to receive immediate feedback and sample responses for every question, go to
your learnON title at www.jacplus.com.au.

Fluency
WE7 For questions 1 to 6, P(x) = 2x3 − 3x2 + 2x + 10. Calculate the following.
1. a. P(0) b. P(1)

2. a. P(2) b. P(3)

3. a. P(−1) b. P(−2)

4. a. P(−3) b. P(a)

5. a. P(2b) b. P(x + 2)

6. a. P(x − 3) b. P(−4y)

906 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

 7. For the polynomial P(x) = x3 + x2 + x + 1, calculate the following showing your full working.
Understanding

a. P(1)
b. P(2)

The remainder when P(x) is divided by (x − 1).

c. P(−1)

The remainder when P(x) is divided by (x − 2).

d.

The remainder when P(x) is divided by (x + 1).

e.
f.

8. For the polynomial P(x) = x3 + 2x2 + 5x + 2, calculate the following showing your full working.
a. P(1)
b. P(2)

The remainder when P(x) is divided by (x − 1).

c. P(−2)

The remainder when P(x) is divided by (x − 2).

d.

The remainder when P(x) is divided by (x + 2).

e.
f.

9. For the polynomial P(x) = x3 − x2 + 4x − 1, calculate the following showing your full working.
a. P(1)
b. P(2)

The remainder when P(x) is divided by (x − 1).

c. P(−2)

The remainder when P(x) is divided by (x − 2).

d.

The remainder when P(x) is divided by (x + 2).

e.
f.

10. For the polynomial P(x) = x3 − 4x2 − 7x + 3, calculate the following showing your full working.
a. P(1)
b. P(−1)

The remainder when P(x) is divided by (x − 1).

c. P(−2)

The remainder when P(x) is divided by (x + 1).

d.

The remainder when P(x) is divided by (x + 2).

e.
f.

Reasoning

a. A quick way of determining the remainder when P(x) is divided by (x + 8) is to calculate ______.
11. Copy and complete:

b. A quick way of determining the remainder when P(x) is divided by (x − 7) is to calculate ______.
c. A quick way of determining the remainder when P(x) is divided by (x − a) is to calculate ______.

12. If P(x) = 2(x − 3) + 1, determine:

5

a. P(2) b. P(−2) c. P(a)

13. If P(x) = −2x3 − 3x2 + x + 3, evaluate:

a. P(a) + 1 b. P(a + 1).

14. When x2 + bx + 2 is divided by (x − 1), the remainder is b2 − 4b + 7. Determine the possible values of b.

15. If P (x) = 2x3 − 3x2 + 4x + c, determine the value of c if P (2) = 20.

Problem solving

16. If P(x) = 3x3 − 2x2 − x + c and P(2) = 8P(1), calculate the value of c.

17. If P(x) = 5x2 + bx + c and P(−1) = 12 while P(2) = 21, determine the values of b and c.

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 907

 14.6 The remainder and factor theorems
LEARNING INTENTION
At the end of this subtopic you should be able to:
• identify factors of polynomials using the factor theorem.

eles-4979
14.6.1 The remainder theorem

the remainder when P(x) is divided by (x − a) is equal to P(a).

• In the previous exercise, you may have noticed that:

• This fact is summarised in the remainder theorem.

The remainder theorem

When P (x) is divided by (x − a), the remainder R = P (a).

• If P(x) = x3 + x2 + x + 1 is divided by (x − 2), the quotient is x2 + 3x + 7 and the remainder is P(2), which
equals 15. That is:

x3 + x2 + x + 1 ÷ (x − 2) = x2 + 3x + 7 +
x−2
( ) 15

and x + x + x + 1 = x + 3x + 7 (x − 2) + 15
( 3 2
) ( 2 )

Dividing a polynomial by a linear factor

If P(x) is divided by (x − a), the quotient is Q(x) and the remainder is

R = P(a), we can write:

P (x) ÷ (x − a) = Q (x) +
(x − a)
R

⇒ P (x) = (x − a) Q (x) + R

WORKED EXAMPLE 8 Calculating remainders using the remainder theorem

Without actually dividing, determine the remainder when x3 − 7x2 − 2x + 4 is divided by:
a. x − 3 b. x + 6.

a. Let P(x) = x3 − 7x2 − 2x + 4.

THINK WRITE

R = P (3)
a. 1. Name the polynomial.

(x − 3) is equal to P(3). = 33 − 7(3)2 − 2 (3) + 4

2. The remainder when P(x) is divided by

= 27 − 7 (9) − 6 + 4
= 27 − 63 − 6 + 4

3. Write the remainder. = −38

908 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

 b. R = P (−6)
(x + 6) is equal to P(−6). = (−6)3 − 7(−6)2 − 2 (−6) + 4
b. 1. The remainder when P(x) is divided by

= −216 − 7 (36) + 12 + 4
= 216 − 252 + 12 + 4

2. Write the remainder. = −452

eles-4980
14.6.2 The factor theorem
• Similarly, if the remainder (R) when P(x) is divided by (x − a) is zero, then (x − a) is a factor of P(x).
• The remainder when 12 is divided by 4 is zero, since 4 is a factor of 12.

• Since R = P(a), determine the value of a that makes P(a) = 0, then (x − a) is a factor.

This is summarised in the factor theorem.

The factor theorem

If P (a) = 0, then (x − a) is a factor of P (x).

• P(x) could be factorised as follows:

P(x) = (x − a)Q(x), where Q(x) is ‘the other’ factor of P(x).

WORKED EXAMPLE 9 Applying the factor theorem to determine constants

(x − 2) is a factor of x3 + kx2 + x − 2. Determine the value of k.

Let P(x) = x3 + kx2 + x − 2.

THINK WRITE

2. The remainder when P(x) is divided by (x − 2) 0 = P (2)

1. Name the polynomial.

is equal to P(2) = 0. = 23 + k(2)2 + 2 − 2

0 = 8 + 4k

4k = −8
k = −2
3. Solve for k and write its value.

Resources
Resourceseses
eWorkbook Topic 14 Workbook (worksheets, code puzzle and project) (ewbk-2040)

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 909

Exercise 14.6 The remainder and factor theorems
Individual pathways
PRACTISE CONSOLIDATE MASTER
1, 3, 5, 8, 9, 16, 18, 21 2, 4, 6, 10, 11, 14, 17, 19, 22 7, 12, 13, 15, 20, 23, 24

To answer questions online and to receive immediate feedback and sample responses for every question, go to
your learnON title at www.jacplus.com.au.

Fluency
WE6 For questions 1 and 2, without actually dividing, determine the remainder when x3 + 3x2 − 10x − 24 is

1. a. x − 1 b. x + 2 c. x − 3 d. x + 5
divided by:

2. a. x − 0 b. x − k c. x + n d. x + 3c

For questions 3 to 7, determine the remainder when the first polynomial is divided by the second without

3. a. x3 + 2x2 + 3x + 4, (x − 3) b. x3 − 4x2 + 2x − 1, (x + 1)
performing long division.

4. a. x3 + 3x2 − 3x + 1, (x + 2) b. x3 − x2 − 4x − 5, (x − 1)

5. a. x3 + x2 + 8, (x − 5) b. −3x3 − 2x2 + x + 6, (x + 1)

6. a. −x3 + 8, (x + 3) b. x3 − 3x2 − 2, (x − 2)

7. a. 2x3 + 3x2 + 6x + 3, (x + 5) b. x3 + 2x2 , (x − 7)

Understanding
8. WE9 The remainder when x3 + kx + 1 is divided by (x + 2) is −19. Calculate the value of k.
9. The remainder when x3 + 2x2 + mx + 5 is divided by (x − 2) is 27. Determine the value of m.

10. The remainder when x3 − 3x2 + 2x + n is divided by (x − 1) is 1. Calculate the value of n.

11. The remainder when ax3 + 4x2 − 2x + 1 is divided by (x − 3) is −23. Determine the value of a.

12. The remainder when x3 − bx2 − 2x + 1 is divided by (x + 1) is 0. Calculate the value of b.

13. The remainder when −4x2 + 2x + 7 is divided by (x − c) is −5. Determine a possible whole number
value of c.
14. The remainder when x2 − 3x + 1 is divided by (x + d) is 11. Calculate the possible values of d.

15. The remainder when x3 + ax2 + bx + 1 is divided by (x − 5) is −14. When the cubic polynomial is divided by
(x + 1), the remainder is −2. Determine the values of a and b.

a. When x3 + 2x2 − 5x − 5 is divided by (x + 2), the remainder is:

16. MC Answer the following. Note: There may be more than one correct answer.

A. −5 B. −2
b. Choose a factor of 2x + 15x + 22x − 15 from the following.
C. 2 D. 5 E. 7
3 2

A. (x − 1) B. (x − 2) C. (x + 3) D. (x + 5) E. (x − 3)

910 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

 c. When x3 − 13x2 + 48x − 36 is divided by (x − 1), the remainder is:

A. −3 B. −2 C. −1
d. Select a factor of x3 − 5x2 − 22x + 56from the following.
D. 0 E. 1

A. (x − 2) B. (x + 2) C. (x − 7) D. (x + 4) E. (x − 4)

a. x3 − 3x2 + 3x − 1 b. x3 − 7x2 + 16x − 12 c. x3 + x2 − 8x − 12 d. x3 + 3x2 − 34x − 120

17. Determine one factor of each of the following cubic polynomials.

Reasoning
For questions 18 and 19, without actually dividing, show that the first polynomial is exactly divisible by the

18. a. x3 + 5x2 + 2x − 8, (x − 1) x3 − 7x2 − x + 7, (x − 7)

second (that is, the second polynomial is a factor of the first).

c. x3 − 7x2 + 4x + 12, (x − 2) x3 + 2x2 − 9x − 18, (x + 2)

b.
d.

19. a. x3 + 3x2 − 9x − 27, (x + 3) b. −x3 + x2 + 9x − 9, (x − 1)

c. −2x3 + 9x2 − x − 12, (x − 4) d. 3x3 + 22x2 + 37x + 10, (x + 5)

20. Prove that each of the following is a linear factor of x3 + 4x2 − 11x − 30 by substituting values into the cubic
function: (x + 2), (x − 3), (x + 5).

21. When (x3 + ax2 − 4x + 1) and x3 − ax2 + 8x − 7 are each divided by (x − 2), the remainders are equal.
Problem solving
( )

Determine the value of a.

22. When x4 + ax3 − 4x2 + b and x3 − ax2 − 7x + b are each divided by (x − 2), the remainders are 26 and 8
respectively. Calculate the values of a and b.
23. Both (x − 1) and (x − 2) are factors of P(x) = x4 + ax3 − 7x2 + bx − 30. Determine the values of a and b and
the remaining two linear factors.
24. The remainder when 2x − 1 is divided into 6x3 − x2 + 3x + k is the same as when it is divided into
4x3 − 8x2 − 5x + 2. Calculate the value of k.

14.7 Factorising polynomials

LEARNING INTENTION
At the end of this subtopic you should be able to:
• factorise polynomials using long division
• factorise polynomials using short division or inspection.

14.7.1 Using long division

eles-4981
• Once one factor of a polynomial has been found (using the factor theorem as in the previous section), long
division may be used to find other factors.
• In the case of a cubic polynomial, one — possibly two — other factors may be found.

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 911

 WORKED EXAMPLE 10 Factorising polynomials using long division

a. x3 − 5x2 − 2x + 24 b. x3 − 19x + 30 c. −2x3 − 8x2 + 6x + 4

Use long division to factorise the following.

a. P(x) = x3 − 5x2 − 2x + 24
THINK WRITE
a. 1. Name the polynomial.

2. Look for a value of x such that P(x) = 0. For P (1) = 13 − 5 × 12 − 2 × 1 + 24

= 1 − 5 − 2 + 24
= 18
3
cubics containing a single x , try a factor of

≠0
the constant term (24 in this case).

P(1) ≠ 0, so (x − 1) is not a factor. P(2) = 23 − 5 × 22 − 2 × 2 + 24

Try P(1).

= 8 − 20 − 4 + 24
≠0
Try P(2).

P(2) ≠ 0, so (x − 2) is not a factor. P(−2) = (−2)3 − 5 × (−2)2 − 2 × (−2) + 24

= −8 − 20 + 4 + 24
= −28 + 28
Try P(−2).

=0
So, (x + 2) is a factor.
P(−2) does equal 0, so (x + 2) is a factor.
3. Divide (x + 2) into P(x) using long division x2 − 7x + 12
to determine a quadratic factor. x + 2 x3 − 5x2 − 2x + 24
x3 + 2x2
−7x2 − 2x
−7x2 − 14x
12x + 24
12x + 24

P(x) = (x + 2)(x2 − 7x + 12)

0
4. Write P(x) as a product of the two factors

P(x) = (x + 2)(x − 3)(x − 4)

found so far.
5. Factorise the quadratic factor if possible.

b. P(x) = x3 − 19x + 30
P(x) = x3 + 0x2 − 19x + 30
b. 1. Name the polynomial.
Note: There is no x2 term, so include 0x2 .

P (−5) = (−5)3 − 19 × (−5) + 30

= −125 + 95 + 30
2. Look at the last term in P(x), which is 30.

Try P(−5). P(−5) = 0 so (x + 5) is a factor. =0

This suggests it is worth trying P(5) or P(−5).

So, (x + 5) is a factor.
3. Divide (x + 5) into P(x) using long division to
x2 − 5x + 6
find a quadratic factor.
x + 5 x3 + 0 x2 − 19x + 30
x3 + 5 x2
−5 x2 − 19x
−5 x2 − 25x
6x + 30
6x + 30

P(x) = (x + 5)(x2 − 5x + 6)
0
4. Write P(x) as a product of the two factors
found so far.

912 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

 P(x) = (x + 5)(x − 2)(x − 3)
c. Let P(x) = −2x3 − 8x2 + 6x + 4
5. Factorise the quadratic factor if possible.

2. Take out a common factor of −2. = −2(x3 + 4x2 − 3x − 2)

c. 1. Write the given polynomial.

(We could take out +2 as the common factor,

but taking out −2 results in a positive leading

3. Let Q(x) = x3 + 4x2 − 3x − 2 Let Q(x) = x3 + 4x2 − 3x − 2

term in the part still to be factorised.)

Q (1) = 1 + 4 − 3 − 2
(We have already used P earlier.)

Q(1) = 0, so (x − 1) is a factor. =0
4. Evaluate Q(1).

So, (x − 1) is a factor.
5. Divide (x − 1) into Q(x) using long division to
x2 + 5x + 2
determine a quadratic factor.
x−1 x3
+ 4x2 − 3x − 2
x3 − x2
5x2 − 3x
5x2 − 5x
2x − 2
2x − 2

P(x) = −2(x − 1)(x2 + 5x + 2)

0
6. Write the original polynomial P(x) as a
product of the factors found so far.
In this case, it is not possible to further
factorise P(x).

values of x that make P(x) = 0 (and hence the three factors).

• Note: In some of these examples, P(x) may have been factorised without long division by finding all three

14.7.2 Using short division, or by inspection

• Consider P (x) = x3 + 2x2 − 13x + 10
eles-4982
• Short division, or factorising by inspection, is a quicker method than long division.

P (1) = 0 so (x − 1) is a factor.
Using the factor theorem:

∴ P (x) = (x − 1) Q
so, P (x) = (x − 1) ax2 + bx + c
( (x), where Q) (x) is the quadratic quotient.

Expanding and equating:

x × ax2 ax3 = x3
Term in x3 : (x − 1) ax2 + bx + c Equating with P (x):

∴ a=1

−1 × ax2 + bx2 −1 × 1x2 + bx2 = 2x2

Terms in x2 : (x − 1) ax2 + bx + c Equating with P (x):

−1 + b = 2
∴ b=3

−1 × c −c = 10
Constant term: (x − 1) ax2 + bx + c Equating with P (x):

∴ c = −10

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 913

 ∴ P (x) = (x − 1) x2 + 3x − 10
( )

Factorising the quadratic gives:

P (x) = (x − 1) (x + 5) (x − 2)

Hence, P (x) = (x − 1) x2 + bx − 10 , leaving only the value of b unknown.

• Note: In this example, the values of a and c can be seen simply by inspecting P (x).
( )
• The following worked example is a repeat of a previous one, but explains the use of short, rather than
long, division.

WORKED EXAMPLE 11 Factorising using short division

Use short division to factorise x3 − 5x2 − 2x + 24.

Let P(x) = x3 − 5x2 − 2x + 24

THINK WRITE
1. Name the polynomial.

2. Look for a value of x such that P(x) = 0. P (−2) = (−2)3 − 5 × (−2)2 − 2 × (−2) + 24
= −8 − 20 + 4 + 24
= −28 + 28
Try P(−2).

=0
P(−2) does equal 0, so (x + 2) is a factor. So, (x + 2) is a factor.

x3 − 5x2 − 2x + 24 = (x + 2) ax2 + bx + c
( )

= (x + 2) x2 + bx + 12
3. Look again at the original and equate the
factorised form to the expanded form. ( )
The values of a and c can be determined

Since the coefficient of the x3 term is 1, a = 1.

simply by inspection.

Since the constant term is 24, c = 12.

x3 − 5x2 − 2x + 24 = x3 + bx2 + 12x + 2x2 + 2bx + 24
−5x2 = bx2 + 2x2
4. Expand the brackets and equate the
2
coefficients of the x terms. We can then
−5x2 = (b + 2) x2
solve for b.
b + 2 = −5
b = −7
P(x) = (x + 2) x2 − 7x + 12
( )

5. Factorise the expression in the second pair P(x) = (x + 2)(x − 3)(x − 4)

of brackets if possible.

914 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

TI | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE CASIO | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE
On a Calculator page, press: On the Main screen, tap:
• MENU • Action
• 2: Number • Transformation
• 3: Factor • factor

factor (x3 − 5x2 − 2x + 24)

Complete the entry lines as: • factor
Complete the entry line as:

(x3 − 5x2 − 2x + 24)

Then press ENTER. factor

x3 − 5x2 − 2x + 24
Then press EXE.

= (x − 4)(x − 3)(x + 2)

x3 − 5x2 − 2x + 24
= (x + 2)(x − 3)(x − 4)

Resources
Resourceseses
eWorkbook Topic 14 Workbook (worksheets, code puzzle and project) (ewbk-2040)
Digital document SkillSHEET Factorising quadratic trinomials (doc-5368)

Exercise 14.7 Factorising polynomials

Individual pathways
PRACTISE CONSOLIDATE MASTER
1, 2, 8, 11, 15, 18 3, 4, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19 6, 7, 10, 13, 14, 17, 20

To answer questions online and to receive immediate feedback and sample responses for every question, go to
your learnON title at www.jacplus.com.au.

Fluency
WE10 For question 1 to 7 apply long division to factorise each dividend.

1. a. x + 1 x3 + 10x2 + 27x + 18 b. x + 2 x3 + 8x2 + 17x + 10

2. a. x + 9 x3 + 12x2 + 29x + 18 b. x + 1 x3 + 8x2 + 19x + 12

3. a. x + 3 x3 + 14x2 + 61x + 84 b. x + 7 x3 + 12x2 + 41x + 42

4. a. x + 2 x3 + 4x2 + 5x + 2 b. x + 3 x3 + 7x2 + 16x + 12

5. a. x + 5 x3 + 14x2 + 65x + 100 b. x x3 + 13x2 + 40x

6. a. x x3 + 7x2 + 12x b. x + 5 x3 + 10x2 + 25x

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 915

 7. a. x + 1 x3 + 6x2 + 5x b. x + 6 x3 + 6x2

8. a. x3 + x2 − x − 1 b. x3 − 2x2 − x + 2 c. x3 + 7x2 + 11x + 5 d. x3 + x2 − 8x − 12

WE11 For questions 8 to 10, factorise the following as fully as possible.

9. a. x3 + 9x2 + 24x + 16 b. x3 − 5x2 − 4x + 20 c. x3 + 2x2 − x − 2 d. x3 − 7x − 6

10. a. x3 + 8x2 + 17x + 10 b. x3 + x2 − 9x − 9 c. x3 − x2 − 8x + 12 d. x3 + 9x2 − 12x − 160

Understanding

11. a. 2x3 + 5x2 − x − 6

For questions 11 to 14, factorise as fully as possible.

b. 3x3 + 14x2 + 7x − 4
c. 3x3 + 2x2 − 12x − 8
d. 4x3 + 35x2 + 84x + 45

x3 + x2 + x + 1
4x3 + 16x2 + 21x + 9
12. a.

6x3 − 23x2 + 26x − 8

b.

7x3 + 12x2 − 60x + 16

c.
d.

13. a. 3x3 − x2 − 10x b. 4x3 + 2x2 − 2x c. 3x3 − 6x2 − 24x d. −2x3 − 12x2 − 18x

14. a. −x3 − 7x2 − 12x b. −x3 − 3x2 + x + 3 c. −2x3 + 10x2 − 12x d. −5x3 + 24x2 − 36x + 16

15. Factorise x4 − 9x2 − 4x + 12.

Reasoning

16. Factorise −x5 + 6x4 + 11x3 − 84x2 − 28x + 240.

17. Two of the factors of x3 + px2 + qx + r are (x + a) and (x + b). Determine the third factor.

18. Factorise x5 − 5x4 + 5x3 + 5x2 − 6x.

Problem solving

19. (x − 1) and (x − 2) are known to be factors of x5 + ax4 − 2x3 + bx2 + x − 2. Determine the values of a and b
and hence fully factorise this fifth-degree polynomial.
20. The polynomial x4 − 6x3 + 13x2 − 12x − 32 has three factors, one of which is x2 − 3x + 8. Evaluate the other
two factors.

916 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

 14.8 Solving polynomial equations
LEARNING INTENTION
At the end of this subtopic you should be able to:
• solve polynomial equations by applying the Null Factor Law.

14.8.1 Solving polynomial equations

• To solve the polynomial equation of the form P (x) = 0:
eles-4983

Step 1: factorise P (x)

Step 2: apply the Null Factor Law
Step 3: state the solutions.

• If P (x) is of degree n , then P (x) = 0 has up to n solutions.

• The Null Factor Law applies to polynomial equations just as it does for quadratics.

Solving each of these equations produces the solutions (roots).

x=a x=b x = c.

• If P(x) = k(lx − a)(mx − b)(nx − c) = 0, then the solutions can be found as follows. Let each factor = 0:

lx − a = 0 mx − b = 0 nx − c = 0

Note: The coefficient k used in this example does not produce a solution because k ≠ 0.
Solving each of these equations produces the solutions.

x= x= x= .
a b c
l m n

WORKED EXAMPLE 12 Solving polynomial equations

a. x3 = 9x b. −2x3 + 4x2 + 70x = 0 c. 2x3 − 11x2 + 18x − 9 = 0.

Solve:

a. x3 = 9x
THINK WRITE

x3 − 9x = 0
a. 1. Write the equation.

x(x2 − 9) = 0
2. Rearrange so all terms are on the left.

x(x + 3)(x − 3) = 0
3. Take out a common factor of x.
4. Factorise the quadratic expression using the

x = 0, x + 3 = 0 or x − 3 = 0
difference of two squares.
5. Use the Null Factor Law to solve.

6. Write the values of x. x = 0, x = −3 or x = 3

b. −2x3 + 4x2 + 70x = 0
2. Take out a common factor of −2x. −2x(x2 − 2x − 35) = 0
b. 1. Write the equation.

−2x(x − 7)(x + 5) = 0
−2x = 0, x − 7 = 0 or x + 5 = 0
3. Factorise the quadratic expression.

x = 0, x = 7 or x = −5
4. Use the Null Factor Law to solve.
5. Write the values of x.

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 917

 c. Let P(x) = 2x3 − 11x2 + 18x − 9.

P (1) = 2 − 11 + 18 − 9
c. 1. Name the polynomial.

(search for a value a such that P(a) = 0). =0

2. Use the factor theorem to determine a factor

Consider factors of the constant term (that So (x − 1) is a factor.

is, factors of 9 such as 1 and 3). The simplest
value to try is 1.
3. Use long or short division to determine
2 x2 − 9x + 9
another factor of P(x).
x − 1 2 − 11 x2 + 18x −
x3 9
2 x3 − 2 x2
−9 x2 + 18x
−9 x2 + 9x
9x − 9
9x − 9
0

P(x) = (x − 1)(2x2 + 9x − 9)
P(x) = (x − 1)(2x − 3)(x − 3)
(x − 1)(2x − 3)(x − 3) = 0
4. Factorise the quadratic factor.

5. Use the Null Factor Law to solve. x − 1 = 0, 2x − 3 = 0 or x − 3 = 0

x = 1, x = or x = 3
3
6. Write the values of x.
2

Resources
Resourceseses
eWorkbook Topic 14 Workbook (worksheets, code puzzle and project) (ewbk-2040)
Digital documents SkillSHEET Factorising difference of two squares expressions (doc-5369)
SkillSHEET Solving quadratic equations (doc-5370)

Exercise 14.8 Solving polynomial equations

Individual pathways
PRACTISE CONSOLIDATE MASTER
1, 5, 8, 10, 14, 17 2, 6, 9, 11, 12, 15, 18 3, 4, 7, 13, 16, 19

To answer questions online and to receive immediate feedback and sample responses for every question, go to
your learnON title at www.jacplus.com.au.

Fluency

1. a. x3 − 4x = 0 b. x3 − 16x = 0 c. 2x3 − 50x = 0

WE12a,b For questions 1 to 4, solve the following.

2. a. −3x3 + 81 = 0 b. x3 + 5x2 = 0 c. x3 − 2x2 = 0

3. a. −4x3 + 8x = 0 b. 12x3 + 3x2 = 0 c. 4x2 − 20x3 = 0

918 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

 4. a. x3 − 5x2 + 6x = 0 b. x3 − 8x2 + 16x = 0 c. x3 + 6x2 = 7x

5. a. x − x2 − 16x + 16 = 0 x3 − 6x2 − x + 30 = 0
WE12c For questions 5 to 7, apply the factor theorem to solve the following.

c. x3 − x2 − 25x + 25 = 0 x3 + 4x2 − 4x − 16 = 0
3
b.
d.

6. a. x3 − 4x2 + x + 6 = 0 x3 − 4x2 − 7x + 10 = 0
c. x3 + 6x2 + 11x + 6 = 0 x3 − 6x2 − 15x + 100 = 0
b.
d.

7. a. x3 − 3x2 − 6x + 8 = 0 b. x3 + 2x2 − 29x + 42 = 0

c. 2x3 + 15x2 + 19x + 6 = 0 d. −4x3 + 16x2 − 9x − 9 = 0

Select a solution to x3 − 7x2 + 2x + 40 = 0 from the following.

8. MC Note: There may be more than one correct answer.

A. 5 B. −4 C. −2 D. 1 E. 3

9. MC A solution of x3 − 9x2 + 15x + 25 = 0 is x = 5. Select the number of other (distinct) solutions there are.
A. 0 B. 1 C. 2 D. 3 E. 4

10. Solve P(x) = 0 for each of the following.

Understanding

a. P(x) = x3 + 4x2 − 3x − 18 b. P(x) = 3x3 − 13x2 − 32x + 12

c. P(x) = −x3 + 12x − 16 d. P(x) = 8x3 − 4x2 − 32x − 20

11. Solve P(x) = 0 for each of the following.

a. P(x) = x4 + 2x3 − 13x2 − 14x + 24 b. P(x) = −72 − 42x + 19x2 + 7x3 − 2x4
c. P(x) = x4 + 2x3 − 7x2 − 8x + 12 d. P (x) = 4x4 + 12x3 − 24x2 − 32x

a. x3 − 3x2 − 6x + 8 = 0 b. x3 + x2 − 9x − 9 = 0 c. 3x4 + 3x3 − 18x = 0

12. Solve each of the following equations.

a. 2x4 + 10x3 − 4x2 − 48x = 0 b. 2x4 + x3 − 14x2 − 4x + 24 = 0 c. x4 − 2x3 + 1 = 0

13. Solve each of the following equations.

14. Solve for a if x = 2 is a solution of ax3 − 6x2 + 3x − 4 = 0.

Reasoning

15. Solve for p if x = is a solution of x3 − 5x2 + 2x + 8 = 0.

p

16. Show that it is possible for a cuboid of side lengths x cm, (x − 1) cm and (x + 2) cm to have a volume that is
2

4 cm3 less than twice the volume of a cube of side length x cm. Comment on the shape of such a cuboid.

Problem solving

x3 + 8 = x(5x − 2)
17. Solve the following equation for x.

2 x3 + 5 = 13x (x − 1)
18. Solve the following equation for x.
( )

z(z − 1)3 = −2(z3 − 5z2 + z + 3)

19. Solve the following equation for z.

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 919

14.9 Review
14.9.1 Topic summary
Polynomials The remainder theorem
• Polynomials are expressions with only non-negative • When P(x) is divided by (x – a), the remainder, R,
integer powers. is given by:
• The degree of a polynomial is the highest power of R = P(a)
the variable that it contains. e.g.
• The leading term is the term with highest power of The remainder when P(x) = 2x3 + 3x2 – 4x – 5 is
the variable. divided by (x + 2) is P(–2).
P(–2) = 2(–2)3 + 3(–2)2 – 4(–2) – 5
• Polynomials are often denoted P(x). = 2(–8) + 3(4) + 8 – 5
• The value of a polynomial can be determined by = –16 + 12 + 8 – 5
substituting the x-value into the expression. = –1
e.g. P(x) = x4 – 3x2 + 8 is a monic
x2
term is –3 and the constant term is 8.
POLYNOMIALS

Factorising polynomials
• The factor theorem states the following:
Operations on polynomials
If P(a) = 0, then (x – a) is a factor of P(x).
• To add or subtract polynomials simply add or subtract
like terms. other factors can be found using the
e.g. methods used to factorise quadratics.
(2x3 – 5x + 1) + (–6x3 + 8x2 + 3x – 11) e.g.
= (2x3 – 6x3 ) + 8x2 + (–5x + 3x) + (1 – 11) P(x) = x3 – 2x2 – 5x + 6
= –4x3 + 8x 2 – 2x – 10 P(1) = (1)3 – 2(1)2 – 5(1) + 6
• To multiply polynomials use the same methods as with =1–2–5+6
quadratic expressions. Use FOIL and then simplify. =0
• For polynomials of degree 3 and higher you may need Therefore, (x – 1) is a factor of P (x).
to use FOIL multiple times. P(x) = (x – 1)(x2 – x – 6)
e.g. = (x – 1)(x – 3)(x + 2)
(x + 3)(x – 1)(2x + 4) = (x + 3)(2x2 + 4x – 2x – 4)
= (x + 3)(2x2 + 2x – 4)
= 2x3 + 2x2 – 4x + 6x2 + 6x – 12
= 2x3 + 8x2 + 2x – 12 Solving polynomial equations
• To solve a polynomial equation:
1. express in the form P(x) = 0
2. factorise P(x)
Long division 3. solve using the Null Factor Law.
• Polynomials can be divided using long division. e.g.
• The example below shows the division of 2x3 + 7x2 = 9
P(x) = x3 + 2x2 – 13x + 10 by x – 3.
3
2x + 7x2 – 9 = 0
x3 + 5x + 2 Quotient Let P(x) = 2x3 + 7x2 – 9.
⟌
x – 3 x + 2x2 – 13x + 10
3 P(1) = 2(1)3 + 7(1)2 – 9
x3 – 3x =2+7–9
5x2 – 13x =0
5x2 – 15x Therefore, (x – 1) is a factor of P (x).
P(x) = (x – 1)(2x2 + 9x + 9)
2x + 10
= (x – 1)(2x – 3)(x + 3)
2x – 6
16 Remainder Using the Null Factor Law:
• The result is: 3
2 x = 1, x = – – or x = –3
P(x) = (x – 3)(x + 5x + 2) + 16 2

920 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

14.9.2 Success criteria
Tick the column to indicate that you have completed the subtopic and how well you have understood it using the
traffic light system.
(Green: I understand; Yellow: I can do it with help; Red: I do not understand)

Subtopic Success criteria

14.2 I can identify polynomial expressions.

I can state the degree, leading term and leading coefficient of a

polynomial.

14.3 I can add, subtract and multiply polynomial expressions.

14.4 I can divide polynomials by linear expressions using long division.

I can determine the quotient and remainder when dividing polynomials by

linear expressions.

14.5 I can determine the value of a polynomial for a given value.

14.6 I can identify factors of polynomials using the factor theorem.

14.7 I can factorise polynomials using long division.

I can factorise polynomials using short division or inspection.

14.8 I can solve polynomial equations by applying the Null Factor Law.

14.9.3 Project
Investigating polynomials

y = −4x3 + 3x2 − 4). The highest power of the variable determines the degree of the polynomial. In the case
A polynomial is a function involving the sum of integer powers of a variable (for example,

of the given example, the degree is 3.

A polynomial of the first degree is a linear function (for example, y = 3x − 8), and a second-degree function
is a quadratic (for example, y = 5x2 − 6x + 7). Let us investigate how the degree of a polynomial affects the
shape of its graph.

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 921

 In order to simplify the graphing of these functions, the polynomials will be expressed in factor form. A
graphics calculator or some other digital technology will make the graphing process less tedious.
It will be necessary to adjust the window of the calculator from time to time in order to capture the relevant
features of the graph.

a. y1 = (x + 1)
1. Consider the following polynomials.

b. y2 = (x + 1)(x − 2)
c. y3 = (x + 1)(x − 2)(x + 3)
d. y4 = (x + 1)(x − 2)(x + 3)(x − 4)
e. y5 = (x + 1)(x − 2)(x + 3)(x − 4)(x + 5)
f. y6 = (x + 1)(x − 2)(x + 3)(x − 4)(x + 5)(x − 6)

For each of the functions:

i. give the degree of the polynomial
ii. sketch the graph, marking in the x-intercepts
iii. describe how the degree of the polynomial affects the shape of the graph.
Complete question 1 on a separate sheet of paper.
2. Let us now look at the effect that the exponent of each factor has on the shape of the graph of the

a. y1 = (x + 1)(x − 2)(x + 3)
polynomial. Consider the following functions.

b. y2 = (x + 1) (x − 2)(x + 3)
c. y3 = (x + 1) (x − 2) (x + 3)
2

d. y4 = (x + 1) (x − 2)(x + 3)
2 2

e. y5 = (x + 1) (x − 2)(x + 3)
2 3

f. y6 = (x + 1) (x − 2) (x + 3)
3 4
5 3 2

i. On a separate sheet of paper, draw a sketch of each of the polynomials, marking in the x-intercepts.
ii. Explain how the power of the factor affects the behaviour of the graph at the x-intercept.

3. Create and draw a sketch of polynomials with the following given characteristics. Complete your graphs
on a separate sheet of paper.
a. A first-degree polynomial that:
i. crosses the x-axis ii. does not cross the x-axis.
b. A second-degree polynomial that:
i. crosses the x-axis twice ii. touches the x-axis at one and only one point.
c. A third-degree polynomial that crosses the x-axis:
i. three times ii. twice iii. once.
d. A fourth-degree polynomial that crosses the x-axis:
i. four times ii. three times iii. twice iv. once.

4. Considering the powers of factors of polynomials, write a general statement outlining the conditions
under which the graph of a polynomial will pass through the x-axis or just touch the x-axis.

Resources
Resourceseses
eWorkbook Topic 14 Workbook (worksheets, code puzzle and project) (ewbk-2040)
Interactivities Crossword (int-2875)
Sudoku puzzle (int-3892)

922 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

Exercise 14.9 Review questions
To answer questions online and to receive immediate corrective feedback and fully worked solutions for
all questions, go to your learnON title at www.jacplus.com.au.

Fluency
1. MC Select which of the following is not a polynomial.

A. x3 − + 7x − 1 B. a4 + 4a3 + 2a + 2 x2 + 3x + 2
x2 √

E. 2x2 + 4x − 8
C.
3
D. 5

2. Consider the polynomial y = − x4 + x5 + 3.

1
7
a. State the degree of y.
b. State the coefficient of x4 .
c. State the constant term.
d. Determine the leading term.

The expansion of (x + 5)(x + 1)(x − 6) is:

A. x − 30 B. x3 + 12x2 − 31x + 30 C. x3 − 31x − 30
3. MC

D. x3 + 5x2 − 36x − 30 E. x3 − 31x2 − 30

3

x3 + 5x2 + 3x − 9 is the expansion of:

A. (x + 3) B. x(x + 3)(x − 3) C. (x − 1)(x + 3)
4. MC

D. (x − 1)(x + 1)(x + 3) E. (x − 1)(x + 3)

3 2

a. (x − 2) (x + 10) b. (x + 6)(x − 1)(x + 5) c. (x − 7) d. (5 − 2x)(1 + x)(x + 2)

5. Expand each of the following.
2 3

6. MC Consider the following long division.

x2 + x + 2
x − 4 x3 + 5x2 + 6 x − 1
x3 + 4x2
x2 + 6x
x2 + 4x
2x − 1
2x + 8
−9

A. −9 C. x + 4 D. x2 + x + 2 E. x2 + 2
a. The quotient is:
B. 9

A. −9 D. 2x − 1
b. The remainder is:
B. 2 C. 4 E. 6

a. x3 + 2x2 − 16x − 3, (x + 2) b. x3 + 3x2 − 13x − 7, (x − 3) c. −x3 + x2 + 4x − 7, (x + 1)

7. Determine the quotient and remainder when the first polynomial is divided by the second in each case.

If P(x) = x3 − 3x2 + 7x + 1, then P(−2) equals:

A. −34 B. −33 C. −9
8. MC

D. 9 E. 33

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 923

 9. If P(x) = −3x3 + 2x2 + x − 4, calculate:
a. P(1) b. P(−4) c. P(2a)

10. Without dividing, determine the remainder when x3 + 3x2 − 16x + 5 is divided by (x − 1).

11. Show that (x + 3) is a factor of x3 − 2x2 − 29x − 42.

12. Factorise x3 + 4x2 − 100x − 400.

a. (2x + 1)(x − 3) = 0 b. x3 − 9x2 + 26x − 24 = 0 c. x4 − 4x3 − x2 + 16x − 12 = 0

13. Solve:
2

Problem solving
14. Let P(x) = an xn + an−1 xn−1 + … + a1 x + a0 be a polynomial where the coefficients are integers. Also let
P(w) = 0 where w is an integer. Show that w is a factor of a0 .

15. Evaluate the area of a square whose sides are (2x − 3) cm. Expand and simplify your answer. If the area
is 16 cm2 , determine the value of x.

height of the window is (6x + 1) cm and its width is (2x + 2) cm.

16. A window is in the shape of a semicircle above a rectangle. The

a. Evaluate the total area of the window.

b. Expand and simplify your answer.
c. Determine the perimeter of the window.

a. Determine the volume of a cube of side (x + 4) cm.

17. Answer the following questions.

b. Evaluate the surface area of the cube.

c. Determine the value of x for which the volume and surface are numerically equal.
d. Calculate the value of x if the numerical value of the volume is 5 less than the numerical value of the
surface area.

18. Determine the quotient and remainder when mx2 + nx + q is divided by (x − p).

19. When P(x) is divided by (x − n), the quotient is x2 − 2x + n and

the remainder is (n + 1). Evaluate the value of P(x).

To test your understanding and knowledge of this topic, go to your learnON title at
www.jacplus.com.au and complete the post-test.

924 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

Online Resources Resources

Below is a full list of rich resources available online for this topic. These resources are designed to bring ideas to life,
to promote deep and lasting learning and to support the different learning needs of each individual.

eWorkbook
Download the workbook for this topic, which includes
worksheets, a code puzzle and a project (ewbk-2040) ⃞

Solutions
Download a copy of the fully worked solutions to every
question in this topic (sol-0748) ⃞

Digital documents
14.3 SkillSHEET Expanding the product of two linear factors
(doc-5366) ⃞
14.5 SkillSHEET Substitution into quadratic equations
(doc-5367) ⃞
14.7 SkillSHEET Factorising quadratic trinomials (doc-5368) ⃞
14.8 SkillSHEET Factorising difference of two squares
expressions (doc-5369) ⃞
SkillSHEET Solving quadratic equations (doc-5370) ⃞

Video eLessons
14.2 Polynomials (eles-4975) ⃞
14.3 Operations with polynomials (eles-4976) ⃞
14.4 Long division of polynomials (eles-4977) ⃞
14.5 Polynomial values (eles-4978) ⃞
14.6 The remainder theorem (eles-4979) ⃞
The factor theorem (eles-4980) ⃞
14.7 Using long division (eles-4981) ⃞
Using short division, or by inspection (eles-4982) ⃞
14.8 Solving polynomial equations (eles-4983) ⃞

Interactivities
14.2 Degrees of polynomials (int-6203) ⃞
14.3 Adding and subtracting polynomials (int-6204) ⃞
14.4 Long division of polynomials (int-2793) ⃞
14.9 Crossword (int-2875) ⃞
Sudoku puzzle (int-3892) ⃞

Teacher resources
There are many resources available exclusively for teachers
online.

To access these online resources, log on to www.jacplus.com.au.

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 925

Answers 13. a. 5 units to the right of the origin
4 units to the right of the origin
b.

Topic 14 Polynomials
14. a = 1, b = −4
c. The body moves towards the origin, then away.

15. a = 4, b = − 6
Exercise 14.1 Pre-test
16. a = ±3, b = ±2
1. a. 2 b. 3 c. 1 d. 0

a = 2, b = −1
2. A
3. Exercise 14.3 Adding, subtracting and
multiplying polynomials
x4 + 2x3 − x2 − 10
4. D

b. −3 −1 x6 + 2x4 − 3x3 + 9x2 + 5

5. A 1. a.

5x3 − 5x2 + 7x − 13
6. a. 3 c. d. 2 b.

x2 + x 2x4 + 3x3 + 12x2 − 4x + 14

7. A c.

x5 + 13x4 − 10
8. d.

x4 + 2x2 + 2x + 4 b. x − x + x + x + 2
9. 9 e.

5x − 4x + 5x d. 10x − 7x + 20x + 5
10. 18 2. a.
6 5 3 2

b=2 2x3 + 6x2 − 10x + 15

7 3 4 2
11. E c.

x3 + 7x2 + 6x x3 − 7x2 − 18x

12. e.

c. x + 8x − 33x d. 2x + 10x + 12x

13. B 3. a. b.

e. 48x − 3x
3 2 3 2
C
x = −1, − or − 6
14.
1 3

5x3 + 50x2 + 80x x3 + 4x2

15.

c. 2x − 14x d. −30x − 270x

2 4. a. b.

e. −7x − 56x − 112x

3 2 3 2
Exercise 14.2 Polynomials 3 2

x3 + 12x2 + 41x + 42 x3 − 3x2 − 18x + 40

1. a. i. 3 ii. x

c. x + 3x − 36x + 32 d. x − 6x + 11x − 6
5. a. b.
b. i. 7 ii. x
e. x + 6x − x − 6
3 2 3 2
c. i. 2 ii. x 3 2

x3 + 5x2 − 49x − 245 x3 + 4x2 − 137x − 660

c. x + 3x − 9x + 5 d. x − 12x + 21x + 98
2. a. i. 6 ii. x 6. a. b.

e. x + x − x − 1
b. i. 8 ii. y 3 2 3 2
3 2

x3 + 13x2 + 26x − 112

c. i. 5 ii. u

3x3 + 26x2 + 51x − 20

3. a. i. 5 ii. e 7. a.

4x4 + 3x3 − 37x2 − 27x + 9

b. i. 1 ii. g b.

10x3 − 49x2 + 27x + 36

c. i. 6 ii. f c.

−6x3 − 71x2 − 198x + 35

d.
4. a. Polynomial 3b b. Polynomial 1c

21x4 − 54x3 − 144x2 + 96x

c. Polynomial 1a d. Polynomials 1a, 2a and 2b e.

54x3 + 117x2 − 72x

8. a.
5. a. N b. P c. P

24x3 − 148x2 + 154x + 245

b.
6. a. N b. N c. P

20x4 − 39x3 − 50x2 + 123x − 54

c.
P N N
4x3 + 42x2 + 146x + 168
7. a. b. c. d.

−2x3 x3 + 6x2 + 12x + 8 b. x + 15x + 75x + 125

8. a. 3 b. x c. 4 e.

x − 3x + 3x − 1
d. 5 e. 3x f. 9. a.
3 2

−9
3 2

x4 − 12x3 + 54x2 − 108x + 81

9. a. 7 b. w c. 7 c.
0 6w7
b. 8x − 72x + 216x − 216
d. e. f. 10. a.

c. 81x + 432x + 864x + 768x + 256

4 3 2

4x + 2x − 10x + 18 3x − 3x − x2 + 7x − 7
10. a. 4 b. 1 c. x d. 1

c. 5x − 4x − 13x − 6 11. (2a + 5b)x + (2b − 5c)

3 2 4 3 4 3 2
11. a. b.

12. x + (a − 4b)x + (2a − 4ab + 3b )x +

3 2

4 3 2 2

(2a2 − 2ab + 3ab2 )x − 2a2 b

12. a. 6

a = 1, b = −12, c = 54, d = −108, e = 81

b. t

8x3 − 45x2 + 78x − 43

c. 6 13.
d. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions
(11x3 − 105x2 + 73x − 27)
14.
in the online resources. 1

a = 2, b = 3
15.
e. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions 8
in the online resources. 16.

926 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

 a = 1, b = −2 and c = 1
a = 1, b = 4 and c = −1
17. 7. a. 4 b. 15 c. 0

−8
18. d. 4 e. 15 f. 0

−8
8. a. 10 b. 28 c.
Exercise 14.4 Long division of polynomials
x2 + 2x, 9 x2 + x + 3, −2 −21
d. 10 e. 28 f.

c. x + 3x − 6, 19 d. x − x + 5, −17 −21
1. a. b. 9. a. 3 b. 11 c.
2 2

x2 + 4x − 6, 14 x2 + 1, 2 −7 −7
d. 3 e. 11 f.

c. x + 5, −36 d. x − x + 6, −11 −7 −7
2. a. b. 10. a. b. 5 c.
2 2
5
x2 + 4x + 3, −3 x2 + 4x + 13, 48
d. e. f.

x2 + 3x − 3, −11 x2 − 3x + 7, 5 −1 −6249 2(a − 3)5 + 1

3. a. b. 11. a. P(−8) b. P(7) c. P(a)

x − 2x − 3, −17 x − 6x + 3, −4
c. d.

−2a3 − 3a2 + a + 4 −2a3 − 9a2 − 11a − 1

12. a. b. c.

x2 + 14x + 72, 359 x2 + 8x + 27, 104

2 2
4. a. b.

b = 1, 4
13. a. b.

3x2 − 7x + 20, −35 4x2 − 8x + 18, −22

c. d.

c=8
14.

c. 2x − 3x + 3, 7
5. a. b.

16. c = 2
15.
2

2x2 − 9, 35 4x2 + 2x − 3, −1 17. b = −2, c = 5

3x2 + x − 1, −2
6. a. b.

3x2 − 2x + 1, 5 2x2 + 5x − 6, −7
c.

c. 4x − 7x − 2, −3
7. a. b. Exercise 14.6 The remainder and factor
theorems
−30 −24
2

x2 − 4x + 3, 8 x2 + x − 6, −11
c. 3x + 2x + 1, 13 −24 b. k + 3k − 10k − 24
8. a. b. 1. a. b. 0 c. 0 d.

−n3 + 3n2 + 10n − 24 d. −27c3 + 27c2 + 30c − 24

2

−x − 5x − 2, −14 −3x − 2x + 4, −3
3 2
2. a.

−x2 + 5x + 6, 9 −2x2 + 7x − 1, 1 −8
9. a.
2
b.
2 c.

x2 − x − 2, 3 x2 , −7
c. d.

−9
3. a. 58 b.

c. x − x − 2, −8 d. −x − x − 8, 0
10. a. b. 4. a. 11 b.
2 2

5x − 2, 7 2x2 − 2x + 10, −54 −6

5. a. 158 b. 6

c. −2x − 4x − 9, −16 d. −2x + 4x − 1, 1

11. a. b.

−202
2 2
6. a. 35 b.

x3 + 2x2 + 5x − 2, −2
7. a. b. 441

b. x + 2x − 9x − 18, 0
12. a.
8. 6

c. x − 3x + 6x − 18x + 58, −171

3 2
9. 3

a. 2x − 4x + 7x − 13x + 32x − 69, 138

4 3 2

−2
10. 1

b. 6x + 17x + 53x + 155, 465

5 4 3 2
13.
3 2 11.

c. x − x + x + 3 , −3
7 2 7 20 20 12. 2
3

−5, 2
2
Quotient: x3 − 4x2 + 8x − 12
13.
3 9 27 27

Remainder: (a + 72) a = −5, b = −3

14. 14.

Quotient = ax + (b + ad)
15.

Remainder = Rc + d(b + ad) (x − 1) (x − 3) or (x − 2)

15. 16. a. D b. C, D c. D d. A, C, D

(x − 3) or (x + 2) (x − 6) or (x + 4) or (x + 5)
q=
17. a. b.
2p c. d.

a = −3
16.
c 18. a–d. Sample responses can be found in the worked

a=6
17. solutions in the online resources.

a = 3, b = −5
18. 19. a–d. Sample responses can be found in the worked
19. solutions in the online resources.
20. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions in
Exercise 14.5 Polynomial values
a=2
the online resources.
10 11
a = 3, b = 2
1. a. b. 21.

−22 a = −5, b = 41, (x + 3) and (x − 5)

2. a. 18 b. 43 22.

k = –4
23.

−77 2a − 3a + 2a + 10
3. a. 3 b.
3 2 24.

16b3 − 12b2 + 4b + 10
4. a. b.

b. 2x + 9x + 14x + 18
5. a. Exercise 14.7 Factorising polynomials
(x + 1)(x + 3)(x + 6) (x + 1)(x + 2)(x + 5)
6. a. 2x − 21x + 74x − 77
3 2

(x + 1)(x + 2)(x + 9) (x + 1)(x + 3)(x + 4)

1. a. b.

b. −128y − 48y − 8y + 10
3 2

3 2
2. a. b.

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 927

 −3, 2 −2, , 6
(x + 3)(x + 4)(x + 7) (x + 2)(x + 3)(x + 7)
1
10. a. b.

(x + 1)2 (x + 2) (x + 2)2 (x + 3)
3. a. b. 3

−4, 2 d. −1,
5

(x + 4)(x + 5)2 x(x + 5)(x + 8)

4. a. b. c.
2

x(x + 3)(x + 4) x(x + 5)2 −4, −2, 1, 3 b. −2, − , 3, 4

5. a. b.
3
11. a.

x(x + 1)(x + 5) x (x + 6)
6. a. b.

−3, −2, 1, 2 d. −4, −1, 0, 2

2
2

(x − 1)(x + 1) (x − 2)(x − 1)(x + 1) −2, 1, 4 −3, −1, 3 −3, 0, 2

7. a. b. c.

c. (x + 1) (x + 5) d. (x − 3)(x + 2)
2
8. a. b. 12. a. b. c.

−4, −3, 0, 2 b. −2, , 2 −1, 1

2 2

(x + 1)(x + 4)2 (x − 5)(x − 2)(x + 2)

3
13. a. c.

(x − 1)(x + 1)(x + 2) (x − 3)(x + 1)(x + 2)

9. a. b. 2

(x + 1)(x + 2)(x + 5) (x − 3)(x + 1)(x + 3) −2, 4, 8

c. d. 14. 2.75

c. (x − 2) (x + 3) d. (x − 4)(x + 5)(x + 8) x = 1.48 (to 2 decimal places)

10. a. b. 15.

x = −1, 4 and 2
2

(2x + 3)(x − 1)(x + 2) b. (3x − 1)(x + 1)(x + 4)

16.

(3x + 2)(x − 2)(x + 2) d. (4x + 3)(x + 3)(x + 5) −1

17.

x= , 2, 5
11. a.

(x + 1)(x2 + 1) b. (x + 1)(2x + 3)
c.

z = −1, 1, −2 and 3
18.

(x − 2)(2x − 1)(3x − 4) d. (7x − 2)(x − 2)(x + 4)

12. a.
2 2
19.

x(x − 2)(3x + 5) 2x(x + 1)(2x − 1)

c.

3x(x − 4)(x + 2) −2x(x + 3)2

13. a. b. Project

−x(x + 4)(x + 3) −(x − 1)(x + 1)(x + 3)

c. d. 1. a. i. 1

c. −2x(x − 3)(x − 2) d. −(x − 2) (5x − 4)

14. a. b. ii. y

(x − 1)(x + 2)(x + 2)(x − 3)

2

−(x − 2)(x + 2)(x + 3)(x − 4)(x − 5)

15.

(x − p + (a + b))
16.

x(x − 1)(x + 1)(x − 2)(x − 3)

0 x
17. –1

a = −2, b = 4, (x − 1)2 (x + 1)2 (x − 2)

18.

(at x = −1).
The graph is linear and crosses the x-axis once
The other two factors are (x − 4) and (x + 1).
19. iii.

20.
b. i. 2
Exercise 14.8 Solving polynomial equations
−2, 0, 2 −4, 0, 4 −5, 0, 5
ii. y

−5, 0
1. a. b. c.

2. a. 3 b. c. 0, 2

3. a. − 2, 0, 2 b. − , 0
√
√ 1 1 0
2
x
c. 0, –1

c. −7, 0, 1
4 5

−4, 1, 4 −2, 3, 5 (at x = −1 and x = 2).

4. a. 0, 2, 3 b. 0, 4 The graph is quadratic and crosses the x-axis twice
iii.

−5, 1, 5 −4, −2, 2

5. a. b.

−1, 2, 3 −2, 1, 5
c. d. c. i. 3

−3, −2, −1 −4, 5

6. a. b. ii. y

−2, 1, 4 −7, 2, 3
c. d.

c. −6, − , −1 d. − , , 3
7. a. b. x
1 1 3 –3 –1 0 2

2 2 2
8. A, C

(at x = −1, x = 2 and x = −3).

The graph is a curve and crosses the x-axis 3 times
iii.
9. B

d. i. 4
ii. y

x
–3 –1 0 2 4

(at x = −1, x = 2, x = −3 and x = 4).

iii. The graph is a curve and crosses the x-axis 4 times

928 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A

 e. i. 5 e. i. y
ii. y

0 x
x 2
–5 –3 –10
–3 –1
2 4

The power 3 on the factor (x + 1) causes the curve

(at x = −1, x = 2, x = −3, x = 4 and x = −5). to run along the axis at x = −1, then cross the axis.
The graph is a curve and crosses the x-axis 5 times
iii. ii.

f. i. 6 The power 4 on the factor (x + 3) causes the curve to

x = −3.
ii. y be directed back on itself without crossing the axis at

f. i. y
x
–5 –3 –1 0 2 4 6

(at x = −1, x = 2, x = −3, x = 4, x = −5 and x = 6).

iii. The graph is a curve and crosses the x-axis 6 times 0 x
–3 –1 2

The power 5 on the factor (x + 1) causes the curve to

2. a. i.

run along the axis at x = −1, then cross the axis.

y
ii.

a. i. y = 3x + 2
x 3. Answers will vary. Possible answers could be as follows.
–3 –1 0 2

ii. y = 4
b. i. y = (x + 1)(x + 2)
ii. y = (x + 1)
ii. Each factor is raised to the power 1. The polynomial

places(−3, −1 and 2). c. i. y = (x + 1)(x + 2)(x + 3)

is of degree 3 and the graph crosses the x-axis in 3 2

b. i.

iii. y = (x + 1) (x + 2)
y ii. Not possible

d. i. y = (x + 1)(x + 2)(x + 3)(x + 4)

2

0 x
2

iii. y = (x + 1) (x + 2)(x + 3), y = (x + 1) (x + 2)

–3 –1
ii. Not possible

The factor (x + 1) is raised to the power 2 while the

2 3
ii.

2 causes the curve not to cross the x-axis at x = −1 but

other two factors are raised to the power 1. The power iv. Not possible
4. If the power of the factor of a polynomial is an odd integer,
to be curved back on itself. the curve will pass through the x-axis. If the power is 1, the
c. i. y
curve passes straight through. If the power is 3, 5. . ., the
curve will run along the x-axis before passing through it. On
the other hand, an even power of a factor causes the curve to
just touch the x-axis then move back on the same side of the
x-axis.
0 x

The power 2 on the two factors (x + 1) and (x − 2)

–3 –1 2
Exercise 14.9 Review questions
ii.
C
−
1.

cross the x-axis at those two points (x = −1 and x = 2).

causes the curve to be directed back on itself and not to 1
2. a. 5 b. c. 3 d. x5
7
d. i. y 3. C

x3 + 6x2 − 36x + 40
4. C

x3 + 10x2 + 19x − 30
5. a.

x3 − 21x2 + 147x − 343

0 x b.
–3 –1 2

−2x3 − x2 + 11x + 10
c.

The power 3 on the factor (x + 3) causes the curve to

d.
ii.

x2 − 16, 29 x2 + 6x + 5, 8 c. −x2 + 2x + 2, −9
6. a. D b. A

x = −3).
run along the axis at that point then to cross the axis (at
7. a. b.

−4
8. B
9. a.

c. −24a + 8a + 2a − 4
b. 216
3 2

TOPIC 14 Polynomials 929

10. −7
11. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions in

12. (x − 10)(x + 4)(x + 10)

the online resources.

13. a. − , 3 c. −2, 1, 2, 3
1
b. 2, 3, 4

14. For example, given P(x) = x − x − 34x − 56 and

2

P(7) = 0 ⇒ (x − 7) is a factor and 7 is a factor of 56.

3 2

4x2 − 12x + 9; x = − ,
1 7
15.

𝜋
2 2

a. Area = ( 𝜋 + 10)x + (𝜋 + 10)x +

1 2
16.

𝜋
2 2

b. Area = ( 𝜋 + 10)x + (𝜋 + 10)x +

1 2

c. Perimeter = (12 + 𝜋)x + (2 + 𝜋)

2 2

a. (x + 4)
b. 6(x + 4)
3
17.

c. x = 2
2

−3 + 3 5
√
d. −3,

mx + (n + mp); q + p(n + mp)

2

x3 − (2 + n)x2 + 3nx − (n2 − n − 1)

18.
19.

930 Jacaranda Maths Quest 10 + 10A