Solving the Cubic Equation: (t-4)(3t+1)(t+2)=0
This equation represents a cubic polynomial, meaning it has a highest power of 3. Solving for t involves finding the values that make the entire equation equal to zero.
Utilizing the Zero Product Property
The key to solving this equation is the Zero Product Property, which states: If the product of two or more factors is zero, then at least one of the factors must be zero.
In our case, we have three factors: (t-4), (3t+1), and (t+2). To make the entire equation equal to zero, at least one of these factors needs to be zero.
Finding the Solutions
Let's solve for t in each factor:
-
(t-4) = 0
- Adding 4 to both sides: t = 4
-
(3t+1) = 0
- Subtracting 1 from both sides: 3t = -1
- Dividing both sides by 3: t = -1/3
-
(t+2) = 0
- Subtracting 2 from both sides: t = -2
Conclusion
Therefore, the solutions to the cubic equation (t-4)(3t+1)(t+2)=0 are:
- t = 4
- t = -1/3
- t = -2
These are the values of t that make the equation true. They represent the roots of the cubic polynomial.