Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Synthetic Division
Synthetic division is a simplified method for dividing a polynomial by a linear binomial of the form (x - c). It allows for quicker calculations compared to long division, particularly when determining polynomial values at specific points or finding remainders. This technique is especially useful for evaluating polynomials at given values, such as checking if a number is a root.
Recommended video:
Polynomial Functions
A polynomial function is a mathematical expression involving a sum of powers in one or more variables multiplied by coefficients. The general form is ƒ(x) = a_nx^n + a_(n-1)x^(n-1) + ... + a_1x + a_0, where 'n' is a non-negative integer. Understanding the structure of polynomial functions is crucial for analyzing their behavior, including finding roots and evaluating function values.
Recommended video:
Introduction to Polynomial Functions
Complex Numbers
Complex numbers are numbers that have a real part and an imaginary part, expressed in the form a + bi, where 'a' is the real part and 'b' is the coefficient of the imaginary unit 'i' (where i^2 = -1). In this context, evaluating a polynomial at a complex number, such as k = 2 + i, requires understanding how to handle both the real and imaginary components to determine the function's value.
Recommended video: