LESSON

7.1 Name Class Date

Finding Rational 7.1 Finding Rational Solutions

Solutions of of Polynomial Equations
Polynomial Equations Essential Question: How do you find the rational roots of a polynomial equation?
Resource
Locker

Common Core Math Standards Explore Relating Zeros and Coefficients of

The student is expected to: Polynomial Functions
COMMON
CORE A-APR.B.2 The zeros of a polynomial function and the coefficients of the function are related. Consider the
polynomial function ƒ(x) = (x + 2)(x -1)(x + 3).
Know and apply the Remainder Theorem: For a polynomial p(x) and a
number a, the remainder on division by x – a is p(a), so p(a) = 0 if and
A Identify the zeros of the polynomial function. The zeros are x = -2, x = 1, and x = -3.
only if (x – a) is a factor of p(x). Also A-APR.B.3, A-CED.A.3
Mathematical Practices B Multiply the factors to write the function in standard form.
COMMON f(x) = (x + 2)(x - 1)(x + 3)
CORE MP.2 Reasoning
= (x 2 + 2x - x - 2)(x + 3)
Language Objective = (x 2 + x - 2)(x + 3)
Explain to a partner how to identify the factors of a polynomial function. = x 3 + 3x 2 + x 2 + 3x - 2x - 6
= x 3 + 4x 2 + x - 6
C How are the zeros of ƒ(x) related to the standard form of the function? Each of the zeros of the

ENGAGE polynomial function is a factor of the constant term in the standard form.

D Now consider the polynomial function g(x) = (2x + 3)(4x - 5)(6x - 1). Identify the zeros
Essential Question: How do you find of this function.
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

the rational roots of a polynomial The zeros are x = -_

3
2
,x=_
5
4
, and x = _
1
6
.
equation?
Use the Rational Root Theorem to identify possible E Multiply the factors to write the function in standard form.
g(x) = (2x + 3)(4x - 5)(6x - 1)
rational roots. Check each by using synthetic
= (8x 2 - 10x + 12x - 15)(6x - 1)
substitution. If a rational root is found, repeat the
= (8x 2 + 2x - 15)(6x - 1)
process on the quotient obtained from the bottom
= 48x 3 - 8x 2 + 12x 2 - 2x - 90x + 15
row of the synthetic substitution. Continue to find
= 48x 3 + 4x 2 - 92x + 15
rational roots in this way until the quotient is How are the zeros of g(x) related to the standard form of the function?
F
quadratic, at which point you can try factoring to Each of the numerators of the zeros is a factor of the constant term, 15, and each of the
identify the last two rational roots. denominators is a factor of the leading coefficient, 48.

Module 7 341 Lesson 1

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A2_MNLESE385894_U3M07L1.indd 341 3/19/14 2:37 PM
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341

2:38 PM
3/19/14
Module 7

341
L1.indd
4_U3M07
SE38589
A2_MNLE

341 Lesson 7.1

 Reflect

1. In general, how are the zeros of a polynomial function related to the function written in standard form? EXPLORE
Each of the numerators of the zeros is a factor of the constant term. Each of the
denominators of the zeros is a factor of the leading coefficient. Relating Zeros and Coefficients of
2. Discussion Does the relationship from the first Reflect question hold if the zeros are all integers? Explain. Polynomial Functions
Yes; If the zeros are all integers, each of them can be written with a denominator of 1. Each
of the numerators is still a factor of the constant term.
INTEGRATE TECHNOLOGY
3. ( )( )(
If you use the zeros, you can write the factored form of g(x) as g(x) = x + __32 x - __54 x - __16 , rather than) Students have the option of completing the Explore
as g(x) = (2x + 3)(4x - 5)(6x - 1). What is the relationship of the factors between the two forms?
Give this relationship in a general form. activity either in the book or online.
In each factor, the denominator of the fraction becomes the coefficient of the variable.
In general, if the zero is -_
a , the factor can be written as (ax + b).
b

QUESTIONING STRATEGIES
Explain 1 Finding Zeros Using the Rational Zero Theorem
What is the relationship between the factors of
If a polynomial function p(x) is equal to (a 1x + b 1)(a 2x + b 2)(a 3x + b 3), where a 1, a 2 , a 3, b 1 , b 2 , and b 3 a polynomial function and the zeros of the
are integers, the leading coefficient of p(x) will be the product a 1a 2 a 3 and the constant term will be
the product b 1b 2b 3. The zeros of p(x) will be the rational numbers -__ __2b b
__3 b function? The zeros are the values of x found by
a1 , - a2 , - a3 .
1

setting each factor equal to 0 and solving for x.

Comparing the zeros of p(x) to its coefficient and constant term shows that the numerators of the
polynomial’s zeros are factors of the constant term and the denominators of the zeros are factors of 7 , what
If a zero of a polynomial function is ___
the leading coefficient. This result can be generalized as the Rational Zero Theorem. 13
do you know about the coefficients when the
Rational Zero Theorem
polynomial is written in standard form? 7 is a factor
If p(x) is a polynomial function with integer coefficients, and if _m is a zero of p(x) p __
n (
(mn ) = 0 , ) of the constant term and 13 is a factor of the leading
then m is a factor of the constant term of p(x) and n is a factor of the leading coefficient of p(x).
coefficient.
Example 1 Find the rational zeros of the polynomial function; then write the function

© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

as a product of factors. Make sure to test the possible zeros to find the actual
zeros of the function.

 ƒ(x) = x 3 + 2x 2 - 19x - 20 EXPLAIN 1

a. Use the Rational Zero Theorem to find all possible rational zeros.
Factors of -20: ±1, ±2, ±4, ±5, ±10, ±20
Finding Zeros Using the Rational Zero
b. Test the possible zeros. Use a synthetic division _
m
1 2 -19 -20
Theorem
table to organize the work. In this table, the first n
row (shaded) represents the coefficients of the
1 1 3 -16 -36
polynomial, the first column represents the
divisors, and the last column represents 2 1 4 -11 -42 QUESTIONING STRATEGIES
the remainders.
4 1 6 5 0
Is every zero of a polynomial function
5 1 7 16 60
represented in the set of numbers given by the
Rational Zero Theorem? No. The Rational Zero
Theorem gives only those zeros that are rational
Module 7 342 Lesson 1
numbers. A polynomial function can also have zeros
that are irrational numbers or imaginary numbers.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
A2_MNLESE385894_U3M07L1 342 16/10/14 10:14 AM

Integrate Mathematical Practices

This lesson provides an opportunity to address Mathematical Practice MP.2,
which calls for students to translate between multiple representations and to
“reason abstractly and quantitatively.” Students explore the relationship between
the factors of a polynomial function and its zeros. They learn how to identify the
zeros given the factors, and the factors given the zeros. They then explore the
relationships between the rational zeros of a function and its leading coefficient
and constant term, establishing the Rational Zero Theorem.

Finding Rational Solutions of Polynomial Equations 342

 c. Factor the polynomial. The synthetic division by 4 results in a remainder of 0, so 4
AVOID COMMON ERRORS is a zero and the polynomial in factored form is given as follows:
(x - 4)(x 2 + 6x + 5) = 0
Some students may forget to include 1 and –1 in their
(x - 4)(x + 5)(x + 1) = 0
list of possible rational zeros. You may want to
x = 4, x = -5, or x = -1
suggest that they write these first so that they are not
The zeros are x = 4, x = -5, and x = -1.
inadvertently left off the list.
B ƒ(x) = x 4 - 4x 3 - 7x 2 + 22x + 24
a. Use the Rational Zero Theorem to find all possible rational zeros.

QUESTIONING STRATEGIES Factors of 24: ± 1 , ± 2 , ± 3 , ± 4 , ± 6 , ± 8 , ± 12 , ± 24

If the leading coefficient of a polynomial b. Test the possible zeros. Use a synthetic division table.

function with integer coefficients is 1, what _

m
n 1 -4 -7 22 24
can you conclude about the function’s rational zeros?
Explain your reasoning. They must be integers, 1 1 -3 -10 12 36

because when you apply the Rational Zero 2 1 -2 -11 0 24

Theorem, n can equal only 1 or –1 in ___m.
n 3 1 -1 -10 -8 0

c. Factor the polynomial. The synthetic division by 3 results in a remainder of 0,

so 3 is a zero and the polynomial in factored form is given as follows:

(x - 3 )(x 3 - x 2 - 10 x - 8 )=0
d. Use the Rational Zero Theorem again to find all possible rational zeros of

g(x) = x 3 - x 2 - 10 x- 8 .

Factors of -8: ± 1 , ± 2 , ± 4 , ± 8

e. Test the possible zeros. Use a synthetic division table.

_
m
-1 -10 -8
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

n 1

1 1 0 -10 -18
2 1 1 -8 -24
4 1 3 2 0

f. Factor the polynomial. The synthetic division by 4 results in a remainder of 0,

so 4 is a zero and the polynomial in factored form is:

(x - 3 )(x - 4 )( 1 x2 + 3 x+ 2 )=0
(x - 3 )(x - 4 )(x + 2 )(x + 1 )=0
x= 3 ,x= 4 , x = -2 , or x = -1

The zeros are x = 3, x = 4, x = -2, and x = -1.

Module 7 343 Lesson 1

COLLABORATIVE LEARNING
A2_MNLESE385894_U3M07L1.indd 343 7/7/14 10:24 AM

Small Group Activity

Have students work in groups of 3–4 students. Instruct each group to create a
fifth-degree polynomial function with rational zeros, not all of which are integers.
Ask them to write their functions in standard from. Have groups exchange
functions, and have each group create a poster showing how to apply the Rational
Zero Theorem to find the zeros of the function. Students’ posters should also
show verification that each number is indeed a zero of the function.

343 Lesson 7.1

 Reflect
INTEGRATE MATHEMATICAL
How is using synthetic division on a 4 th degree polynomial to find its zeros different than using synthetic
4.
division on a 3 rd degree polynomial to find its zeros? PRACTICES
To find the zeros of a 4 th degree polynomial using synthetic division, you need to use synthetic Focus on Math Connections
division to reduce that polynomial to a 3 rd degree polynomial and then use synthetic division
MP.1 Remind students that a zero of a function is a
again to reduce that polynomial to a quadratic polynomial that can be factored, if possible.
number from the domain that the function pairs with
5. Suppose you are trying to find the zeros the function ƒ(x) = x 2 + 1. Would it be possible to use synthetic 0. Discuss that, for this reason, a graph of the
division on this polynomial? Why or why not?
It would not be possible to find the zeros of this polynomial using synthetic substitution
function will have an x-intercept at each zero.
because the function has no rational roots, only complex roots.
Students can then make a concrete connection
between the rational zeros they identify for a
6. Using synthetic division, you find that __12 is a zero of ƒ(x) = 2x 3 + x 2 - 13x + 6. The quotient function, and the role the zeros play in the graph of
()
from the synthetic division array for ƒ __12 is 2x 2 + 2x - 12. Show how to write the factored form of
the function.
ƒ(x) = 2x3 + x 2 - 13x + 6 using integer coefficients.
Using __
1
as a zero and the quotient 2x 2 + 2x - 12 you can write f(x) = 2x 3 + x 2 - 13x + 6

( )
2
as f(x) = x - _ 1 (2x 2 + 2x - 12).
2

f(x) = (x - _
2) ( 12 )(2)(x + x - 6)
1 (2x + 2x - 12) = x - _
2 2

= (2x - 1)(x 2 + x - 6) = (2x - 1)(x + 3)(x - 2)

Your Turn

7. Find the zeros of ƒ(x) = x 3 + 3x 2 - 13x- 15.

a. Use the Rational Zero Theorem. Factors of -15: ±1, ±3, ±5, ±15
b. Test the possible zeros to find one that is actually a zero.
_
m
1 -3 -13 -15 © Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company
n
1 1 4 -9 -24
3 1 6 5 0

c. Factor the polynomial using 3 as a zero.

(x - 3)(x 2 + 6x + 5) = 0
(x - 3)(x + 1)(x + 5) = 0
x = 3, x = -1, or x = -5 The zeros are x = 3, x = -1, and x = -5.

Module 7 344 Lesson 1

DIFFERENTIATE INSTRUCTION
A2_MNLESE385894_U3M07L1.indd 344 10/16/14 11:22 PM

Visual Cues
Encourage students to circle the leading coefficient in the function and to write
“n is a factor of ” above it, and to circle the constant term in the function and to
write “m is a factor of ” above it. This will be helpful when applying the Rational
Zero Theorem, and will keep students from erroneously writing the reciprocals of
the possible rational zeros, especially since the usages of m and n appear in reverse
alphabetical order with respect to the function.

Finding Rational Solutions of Polynomial Equations 344

 Explain 2 Solving a Real-World Problem Using
EXPLAIN 2 the Rational Root Theorem
Since a zero of a function ƒ(x) is a value of x for which ƒ(x) = 0, finding the zeros of a
polynomial function p(x) is the same thing as find the solutions of the polynomial equation
Solving a Real-World Problem Using p(x) = 0. Because a solution of a polynomial equation is known as a root, the Rational Zero
the Rational Root Theorem Theorem can be also expressed as the Rational Root Theorem.

Rational Root Theorem

If the polynomial p(x) has integer coefficients, then every rational root of
CONNECT VOCABULARY the polynomial equation p(x) = 0 can be written in the form __ m
n , where m is
a factor of the constant term of p(x) and n is a factor of the leading coefficient
Explain how the words zeros and roots (or solutions) of p(x).
have similar meanings but are used in different
contexts. The zeros of a function are the roots (or Engineering A pen company is designing a gift container for their new
solutions) of the related equation. premium pen. The marketing department has designed a pyramidal box with a
rectangular base. The base width is 1 inch shorter than its base length and the
height is 3 inches taller than 3 times the base length. The volume of the box in
tory g
must be 6 cubic inches. What are the dimensions of the box? Graph the volume His arkin
m
function and the line y = 6 on a graphing calculator to check your solution. the
QUESTIONING STRATEGIES
Why is it necessary to rewrite the equation so A. Analyze Information
that it is equal to 0? In order to find the roots 1
The important information is that the base width must be inch
shorter than
of an equation using the Rational Root Theorem, the
the base length, the height must be 3 inches taller than 3 times the
equation must be in the form p(x) = 0. base length,
and the box must have a volume of 6 cubic inches.
What information is obtained by applying the
Rational Zero Theorem to a polynomial B. Formulate a Plan
function? A list of all possible rational zeros of the Write an equation to model the volume of the box.
x-1
function Let x represent the base length in inches. The base width is and the
height is 3x + 3 , or 3(x + 1) .
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

1 ℓw h = V
_
3
_
1 ( x )(x - 1 )(3) x + 1 = 6
( )
3
1 x3 - 1 x - 6 = 0

Module 7 345 Lesson 1

A2_MNLESE385894_U3M07L1 345 6/28/14 2:13 PM

345 Lesson 7.1

 C. Solve
INTEGRATE MATHEMATICAL
Use the Rational Root Theorem to find all possible rational roots.
PRACTICES
Factors of -6: ± 1 , ± 2 , ± 3 , ± 6
Test the possible roots. Use a synthetic division table. Focus on Critical Thinking
_
m
1 0 -1 -6 MP.3 Prompt students to recognize that any
n
rational roots found by factoring the resulting
1 1 1 0 -6
quadratic polynomial must be numbers that were
2 1 2 3 0 identified as possible rational roots initially. This may
3 1 3 8 18 help them to catch errors in factoring, or in
performing the synthetic division.
Factor the polynomial. The synthetic division by 2 results in a remainder of 0,
so 2 is a root and the polynomial in factored form is as follows:
( 1 x- 2 )( 1 x2 + 2 x + 3 ) = 0

The quadratic polynomial produces only complex roots, so the only possible
answer for the base length is 2 inches. The base width is 1 inch and the

height is 9 inches.

D. Justify and Evaluate

The x-coordinates of the points where the graphs of two functions, f and g, intersect
is the solution of the equation f(x) = g(x). Using a graphing calculator to graph the
volume function and y = 6 results in the graphs intersecting at the point (2, 6) .
Since the x-coordinate is 2 , the answer is correct.

Your Turn

8. Engineering A box company is designing a new rectangular gift container. The marketing department

© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

has designed a box with a width 2 inches shorter than its length and a height 3 inches taller than its length.
The volume of the box must be 56 cubic inches. What are the dimensions of the box?
A. The box width must be 2 inches shorter than the length, the height must be 3 inches
taller than the width, and the box must have a volume of 56 cubic inches.
B. Let x represent the length in inches. The width is x - 2 and the height is x + 3.
ℓwh = V
(x)(x - 2)(x + 3) = 56

x 3 + x 2 - 6x = 56
x 3 + x 2 - 6x - 56 = 0

Module 7 346 Lesson 1

A2_MNLESE385894_U3M07L1 346 6/27/14 10:32 PM

Finding Rational Solutions of Polynomial Equations 346

 C. Use the Rational Root Theorem. Factors of -56: ±1, ±2, ±4, ±7, ±8, ±14, ±28, ±56

ELABORATE Test the possible roots to find one that is actually a root. Use a synthetic division table.
m_ 1 1 -6 -56
n
INTEGRATE MATHEMATICAL 1 1 2 -4 -60
PRACTICES 2 1 3 0 -56

Focus on Technology 4 1 5 14 0

MP.5 Have students discuss how they could use a Factor the polynomial. using 4 as a root.
graphing utility to help determine which numbers (x - 4)(x 2 + 5x + 14) = 0
The quadratic polynomial produces only complex roots. The only possible answer for the
from their list of possible rational zeros are more length is 4 inches. The width is 2 inches and the height is 7 inches.
likely than others to be zeros. Students should D. Using a graphing calculator, the graphs intersect at (4, 56), which validates the answer.
recognize that they can use the x-intercepts of the
graph to help them focus in on which numbers on Elaborate
their lists are good candidates to test as possible 9. For a polynomial function with integer coefficients, how are the function’s coefficients and rational zeros
zeros. related?
The rational zeros of a polynomial function with integer coefficients are in the form __ m
n,
where m is a factor of the constant term and n is a factor of the leading coefficient.

QUESTIONING STRATEGIES 10. Describe the process for finding the rational zeros of a polynomial function with integer coefficients.
Using the Rational Zero Theorem to find all possible rational zeros, test the possible zeros
If a cubic function has only one rational root,
to find one that is actually a zero by using a synthetic division table to organize the work
what will be true about the quadratic
and factor the polynomial.
polynomial quotient that results from synthetic
division by the rational root? It will not be 11. How is the Rational Root Theorem useful when solving a real-world problem about the volume of an
object when the volume function is a polynomial and a specific value of the function is given?
factorable over the set of integers. The theorem is useful in this case because it allows you to find the rational roots of the
polynomial equation created when you set the volume function equal to the given value.
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

By rewriting the equation so that one side is 0, you can use the Rational Root Theorem to
SUMMARIZE THE LESSON
find the dimension given by the variable and then find the other dimensions.
How can you use the Rational Root Theorem
12. Essential Question Check-In What does the Rational Root Theorem find?
to find the rational solutions of a polynomial
The Rational Root Theorem finds the possible rational roots of a polynomial equation.
equation? You can write the equation in the form
p(x) = 0, and then use the theorem to identify
possible roots of the equation. These roots will be of
p
the form __
q . You can then test the possible roots
using synthetic substitution. If you can reduce the
polynomial to a quadratic, you can try factoring the
quadratic to find any other rational roots.

Module 7 347 Lesson 1

LANGUAGE SUPPORT
A2_MNLESE385894_U3M07L1.indd 347 3/11/16 2:50 AM

Communicating Math
Have students work in pairs. Instruct one student to write a polynomial function
in factor form. Have the second student identify the zeros of the function and
explain why they are the zeros. The students switch roles and repeat the process.
Repeat the example from the lesson to provide a format.

347 Lesson 7.1

 Evaluate: Homework and Practice EVALUATE
• Online Homework
Find the rational zeros of each polynomial function. Then write each function in • Hints and Help
factored form. • Extra Practice

1. ƒ(x) = x 3 − x 2− 10x − 8 2. ƒ(x) = x 3 + 2x 2- 23x - 60

Factors of −8 : ±1, ±2, ±4, ±8 Factors of −60 : ±1, ±2, ±3, ±4, ±5, ±6,
±10, ±12, ±15, ±20, ±30, ±60
4 is a zero.
5 is a zero.
(x - 4)(x 2 + 3x + 2) = 0
(x - 5)(x 2 + 7x + 12) = 0
ASSIGNMENT GUIDE
(x - 4)(x + 2)(x + 1) = 0
(x - 5)(x + 3)(x + 4) = 0 Concepts and Skills Practice
x = 4, x = -2, or x = -1
x = 5, x = -3, or x = -4
f(x) = (x - 4)(x + 2)(x + 1) Explore Exercise 17
f(x) = (x - 5)(x + 3)(x + 4)
Relating Zeros and Coefficients of
3. j(x) = 2x 3 - x 2 - 13x - 6 4. g(x) = x 3 - 9x 2 + 23x − 15 Polynomial Functions
Factors of −6 : ±1, ±2, ±3, ±6 Factors of −15 : ±1, ±3, ±5, ±15
Example 1 Exercises 2–12
3 is a zero. 1 is a zero. Finding Zeros Using the Rational
(x - 3)(2x 2 + 5x + 2) = 0 (x - 1)(x 2 - 8x + 15) = 0 Zero Theorem
(x - 3)(2x + 1)(x + 2) = 0 (x - 1)(x -5)(x - 3) = 0 Example 2 Exercises 13–16
x = 1, x = 5, or x = 3
x = 3, x = -_
1
, or x = -2
Solving a Real-World Problem Using
2 g(x) = (x - 1)(x - 5)(x - 3) the Rational Root Theorem
j(x) = (x - 3)(2x + 1)(x + 2)

h(x) = x 3 - 5x 2 + 2x + 8 h(x) = 6x 3 - 7x - 9x − 2
2
5. 6.
Factors of 8 : ±1, ±2, ±4, ±8 Factors of −2 : ±1, ±2 INTEGRATE MATHEMATICAL
2 is a zero. 2 is a zero. PRACTICES
(x - 2)(x 2 - 3x - 4) = 0 (x - 2)(6x 2 + 5x + 1) = 0 Focus on Patterns
(x - 2)(x - 4)(x + 1) = 0 (x - 2)(2x + 1)(3x + 1) = 0
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company
x = 2, x = 4, or x = -1
MP.8 Students can use patterns in the signs of the
x = 2, x = -_
1
, or x = -_
1
terms in the polynomial function to help them decide
h(x) = (x - 2)(x - 4)(x + 1) 2 3
h(x) = (x - 2)(2x + 1)(3x + 1) which of the possible rational zeros to test. For
7. s(x) = x 3 - x 2 − x + 1 8. t(x) = x 3 + x 2 − 8x − 12 example, if the signs of the terms in the polynomial
Factors of 1 : ±1 Factors of −12 : ±1, ±2, ±3, ±4, ±6, ±12 function (or in the quotient after dividing
1 is a zero. 3 is a zero. synthetically) are all positive, students need not check
(x - 1)(x - 1) = 0
2
(x - 3)(x 2 + 4x + 4) = 0 any positive numbers on their lists.
(x - 1)(x + 1)(x - 1) = 0 (x - 3)(x + 2)(x + 2) = 0
x = 1 or x = -1 x = 3 or x = -2
s(x) = (x - 1)(x + 1)(x - 1) t(x) = (x - 3)(x + 2)(x + 2)

Module 7 348 Lesson 1

COMMON
Exercise
A2_MNLESE385894_U3M07L1 348
Depth of Knowledge (D.O.K.) CORE Mathematical Practices 16/10/14 10:37 AM

1–12 1 Recall of Information MP.5 Using Tools

13–17 2 Skills/Concepts MP.4 Modeling
18–19 2 Skills/Concepts MP.3 Logic
20 3 Strategic Thinking MP.2 Reasoning
21 3 Strategic Thinking MP.3 Logic

Finding Rational Solutions of Polynomial Equations 348

 9. k(x) = x 4 + 5x 3 - x 2 − 17x + 12 10. g(x) = x 4 - 6x 3 + 11x 2 - 6x
AVOID COMMON ERRORS
Factors of 12 : ±1, ±2, ±3, ±4, ±6, ±12 g(x) = x(x 3 - 6x 2 + 11x - 6)
Students may incorrectly conclude that a polynomial Factors of -6 : ±1, ±2, ±3, ±6
1 is a zero.
function that has n rational zeros has only n real 1 is a zero.
Factor the polynomial.
zeros. Explain that the function may have irrational (x − 1)(x 3 + 6x 2 + 5x − 12) (x)(x - 1)(x 2 - 5x + 6) = 0
zeros as well, and irrational zeros are real zeros. Factors of -12 : ±1, ±2, ±3, ±4, ±6, ±12 (x)(x - 1)(x - 3)(x - 2) = 0
1 is a zero. x = 1, x = 0, x = 3, or x = 2
g(x) = (x)(x - 1)(x - 3)(x - 2)
(x - 1)(x - 1)(x 2 + 7x + 12) = 0
CONNECT VOCABULARY (x - 1)(x - 1)(x + 3)(x + 4) = 0
Have students, in their own words, explain how the x = 1, x = -3, or x = -4
Rational Zero Theorem and the Rational Root k(x) = (x - 1)(x - 1)(x + 3)(x + 4)
Theorem are related (for example, a solution of a
11. h(x) = x 4 - 2x 3 - 3x 2 + 4x + 4 12. ƒ(x) = x 4 - 5x 2 + 4
polynomial equation is often called a root).
Factors of 4 : ±1, ±2, ±4 Factors of 4 : ±1, ±2, ±4
2 is a zero. 1 is a zero.

(x − 2)(x − 3x − 2)
3 f(x) = (x - 1)(x 3 + x 2 − 4x − 4)
Factors of -2 : ±1, ±2 Factors of −4 : ±1, ±2, ±4
2 is a zero. 2 is a zero.

(x - 2)(x - 2)(x + 2x + 1) = 0
2
(x - 1)(x - 2)(x 2 + 3x + 2) = 0
(x - 2)(x - 2)(x + 1)(x + 1) = 0 (x - 1)(x - 2)(x + 2)(x + 1) = 0
x = -1 or x = 2 x = 1, x = 2, x = -2, or x = -1
h(x) = (x - 2)(x - 2)(x + 1)(x + 1) f(x) = (x - 1)(x - 2)(x + 2)(x + 1)

13. Manufacturing A laboratory supply company is designing a new rectangular box in which to ship glass
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

pipes. The company has created a box with a width 2 inches shorter than its length and a height 9 inches
taller than twice its length. The volume of each box must be 45 cubic inches. What are the dimensions?
Let x represent the length in inches. Then the width is x - 2 and the height is 2x + 9.
ℓwh = V
(x)(x - 2)(2x + 9) = 0
2x 3 + 5x 2 - 18x = 45
2x + 5x 2 - 18x - 45 = 0
3

Factors of -45: ±1, ±3, ±5, ±9, ±15, ±45

3 is a root.
(x - 3)(2x 2 + 11x + 15) = 0, so (x - 3)(2x + 5)(x + 3) = 0
-5
x = 3, x = ___
2
, or x = -3
Length cannot be negative. The length must be is 3 inches. The width is 1 inch and
the height is 15 inches.

Module 7 349 Lesson 1

A2_MNLESE385894_U3M07L1.indd 349 3/1/16 1:27 AM

349 Lesson 7.1

 14. Engineering A natural history museum is building a pyramidal glass structure for
its tree snake exhibit. Its research team has designed a pyramid with a square base and CRITICAL THINKING
with a height that is 2 yards more than a side of its base. The volume of the pyramid
must be 147 cubic yards. What are the dimensions? Discuss with students why the Rational Root
Let x represent the side of the square base in yards. The height is x + 2. Theorem works, by applying it to a quadratic
_1 ℓwh = V equation, such as 2x 2 + x - 15 = 0, and showing
3
_1(x)(x)(x + 2) = 147 how the process of solving the equation by factoring
3
_1(x 3 + 2x 2) = 147 focuses on the factors of p and q in a way that is
3
x 3 + 2x 2 = 441
similar to the process of the Rational Root Theorem.
Focus students’ attention on how p is the product of
x 3 + 2x 2 - 441 = 0 Factors of -441: ±1, ±3, ±7, ±9, ±21, ±49, ±63, ±147, ±441
7 is a root. the first coefficients of the factors, and q is the
product of the constant terms of the factors.
(x - 7)(x 2 + 9x + 63) = 0
The quadratic factor produces only complex roots. So, each side of the base is 7 yards and
the height is 9 yards.

15. Engineering A paper company is designing a new, pyramid-

shaped paperweight. Its development team has decided that to
make the length of the paperweight 4 inches less than the height
and the width of the paperweight 3 inches less than the height. The
paperweight must have a volume of 12 cubic inches. What are the
dimensions of the paperweight?
Let x represent the height in inches. The length is
x - 4 and the width is x - 3.

© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company • Image Credits: ©James

_1 ℓwh = V
3
_(x - 4)(x - 3)(x) = 12
1
3
_1(x 3 - 7x 2 + 12x) = 12
3
x 3 - 7x 2 + 12x = 36
x 3 - 7x 2 + 12x - 36 = 0
Factors of -36: ±1, ±2, ±3, ±4, ±6, ±9, ±12, ±18, ±36
6 is a root.
(x - 6)(x 2 - x + 6) = 0
Kingman/Shutterstock

The quadratic factor produces only complex roots. So, the height is 6
inches, the length is 2 inches, and the width is 3 inches.

Module 7 350 Lesson 1

A2_MNLESE385894_U3M07L1.indd 350 3/19/14 2:37 PM

Finding Rational Solutions of Polynomial Equations 350

 16. Match each set of roots with its polynomial function.
PEER-TO-PEER DISCUSSION
A. x = 2, x = 3, x = 4
B
(
ƒ(x) = (x + 2)(x + 4) x – _ 3
2)
Ask students to discuss with a partner how the
Rational Root Theorem, in conjunction with the Zero
B. x = –2, x = –4, x = _3
2
C
(
ƒ(x) = x – _ )(
1 x–_
2 4)(
5 x+_
)
7
3
1, x = _
C. x = _ 5 , x = –_
7 A ƒ(x) = (x – 2)(x – 3)(x – 4)
Product Property, enables them to solve real-world 2 4 3
problems that can be modeled by polynomial 4, x = _
D. x = – _
5
6, x = 4
7 (
D ƒ(x) = x + _
5 )(
4 x–_
7)
6 (x – 4)

equations. The Rational Root Theorem can be used

to identify possible solutions. Identifying one or 17. Identify the zeros of ƒ(x) = (x + 3)(x - 4)(x - 3), write the function in standard form,
and state how the zeros are related to the standard form.
more of the solutions from the list of possible
The zeros of f(x) are x = -3, x = 4, and x = 3.
solutions can help you to write the equation in f(x) = (x + 3)(x - 4)(x - 3) = (x 2 + 3x - 4x - 12)(x - 3)
factored form. You can then use the Zero Product = (x 2 - x - 12)(x - 3) = x 3 - 3x 2 - x 2 + 3x - 12x + 36
Property to set each factor equal to zero and solve = x 3 - 4x 2 - 9x + 36

for other possible solutions. The zeros of f(x) are all factors of the constant term in the polynomial function.

H.O.T. Focus on Higher Order Thinking

JOURNAL 18. Critical Thinking Consider the polynomial function g(x) = 2x 3 - 6x 2 + πx + 5. Is it

possible to use the Rational Zero Theorem and synthetic division to factor this polynomial?
Have students describe how they could use the Explain.
No; it is not possible because the function contains a term, πx, whose
Rational Zero Theorem to write a polynomial
coefficient is irrational and, therefore, not an integer.
function in intercept form.
19. Explain the Error Sabrina was told to find the zeros of the polynomial function
h(x) = x(x - 4)(x + 2). She stated that the zeros of this polynomial are x = 0,
x = -4, and x = 2. Explain her error.
For any factor (ax + b), a zero occurs at -_
b
a . Sabrina forgot to include the
negative sign when converting from her factors to the zeros.
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

20. Justify Reasoning If _ c is a rational zero of a polynomial function p(x), explain why
b
bx - c must be a factor of the polynomial.

()
Since p _c = 0, x - _c is a factor of p(x) by the Factor Theorem. So,
b b
p(x) = (x - _
b) b( b)
c
q(x) and p(x) = _
b
x-_
c
q(x) = _
1(
b
bx - c)q(x), which
shows that bx - c is a factor of p(x).
21. Justify Reasoning A polynomial function p(x) has degree 3, and its zeros are –3, 4, and
6. What do you think is the equation of p(x)? Do you think there could be more than one
possibility? Explain.
p(x) = (x + 3)(x - 4)(x - 6); any constant multiple of p(x) will also have
degree 3 and the same zeros, so the equation can be any function of the
form p(x) = a(x + 3)(x - 4)(x - 6) where a ≠ 0.

Module 7 351 Lesson 1

A2_MNLESE385894_U3M07L1 351 16/10/14 10:53 AM

351 Lesson 7.1

 Lesson Performance Task AVOID COMMON ERRORS
For the years from 2001–2010, the number of Americans traveling to other countries by plane Some students may set A(t) equal to 40,000,000,
can be represented by the polynomial function A(t) = 20t 4 - 428t 3 + 2760t 2 - 4320t + 33,600 ,
where A is the number of thousands of Americans traveling abroad which is the number given in the problem. Ask
by airplane and t is the number of years since 2001. In which year
were there 40,000,000 Americans traveling abroad? Use the
students to check the units of A. thousands of
Rational Root Theorem to find your answer. Americans. Have students divide 40,000,000 by 1,000
[Hint: consider the function’s domain and range before finding all
possible rational roots.] to get the correct value for A, 40,000. More precisely,
A(t) = 20t 4 - 428t 3 + 2760t 2 - 4320t + 33,600 A is 40,000 thousands of Americans.
40,000 = 20t 4 - 428t 3 + 2760t 2 - 4320t + 33,600
0 = 20t 4 - 428t 3 + 2760t 2 - 4320t - 6400
Factors of -6400 between 0 and 9: 1, 2, 4, 5, 8. Test the possible roots: QUESTIONING STRATEGIES
_
m
20 -428 2760 -4320 -6400 Why is it useful to know a function’s domain
n
1 20 -408 2352 -1968 -8368 when solving for the roots? If the domain
2 20 -388 1984 -352 -7104 consists only of rational numbers, then the roots
4 20 -348 1368 1152 -1792
must be rational. For example, if the domain
consists of the integers from 0 to 9, then the roots
5 20 -328 1120 1280 0
must be rational because integers are rational
8 20 -268 616 608 -1536
numbers.
0 = (x - 5)(20x - 328x + 1120x + 1280)
3 2

Factors of 1280 between 0 and 9: 1, 2, 4, 5, 8. Test the possible roots: Why does the domain consist only of
_
m
-328 integers? The domain is the number of years

© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company • Image Credits: ©Paul

n 20 1120 1280

1 20 -308 812 2092

since 2001. The function only makes sense for
integer values.
2 20 -288 544 2368

4 20 -248 128 1792

5 20 -228 -20 1180
8 20 -168 -224 -512
Seheult/Eye Ubiquitous/Corbis

Because the cubic polynomial factor has no rational roots between 0 and 9, x = 5 years
returns the only solution. In other words, there were 40,000,000 Americans traveling
overseas by air in 2006.

Module 7 352 Lesson 1

EXTENSION ACTIVITY
A2_MNLESE385894_U3M07L1.indd 352 3/11/16 2:50 AM

Have students research the factors that affect tourist numbers, such as changes in
economic status, or the safety of a destination. Have students discuss who might
use a model of tourist numbers like A(t) and how it might be used. Ask students
to describe situations in which it would be useful to input a value of t to calculate
the number of tourists, and in what situations it would be useful to do the
inverse—use a given number of tourists and solve for the roots. Scoring Rubric
2 points: Student correctly solves the problem and explains his/her reasoning.
1 point: Student shows good understanding of the problem but does not fully
solve or explain his/her reasoning.
0 points: Student does not demonstrate understanding of the problem.

Finding Rational Solutions of Polynomial Equations 352