Dividing Polynomials: (x^5 + 6x^4 - 3x^2 - 22x - 29) / (x + 6)
This article will guide you through the process of dividing the polynomial (x^5 + 6x^4 - 3x^2 - 22x - 29) by (x + 6) using polynomial long division.
Polynomial Long Division
Polynomial long division is a method used to divide polynomials, similar to the long division process used with numbers. Here's how it works:
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Set up the division: Write the dividend (x^5 + 6x^4 - 3x^2 - 22x - 29) inside the division symbol and the divisor (x + 6) outside.
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Divide the leading terms: Divide the leading term of the dividend (x^5) by the leading term of the divisor (x). This gives you x^4. Write this term above the dividend.
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Multiply the divisor: Multiply the quotient term (x^4) by the entire divisor (x + 6). This gives you x^5 + 6x^4.
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Subtract: Subtract the result from the dividend. This leaves you with 0.
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Bring down the next term: Bring down the next term from the dividend (-3x^2).
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Repeat steps 2-5: Now divide the leading term of the new dividend (-3x^2) by the leading term of the divisor (x), which gives you -3x. Write this term above the dividend. Multiply the divisor by -3x, subtract the result, and bring down the next term (-22x).
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Continue the process: Continue this process until you have no more terms to bring down.
Here's the long division process step-by-step:
x^4 - 3x + 17
_______________________
x + 6 | x^5 + 6x^4 - 3x^2 - 22x - 29
-(x^5 + 6x^4)
_______________________
- 3x^2 - 22x
-(-3x^2 - 18x)
_______________________
- 4x - 29
-(-4x - 24)
_______________________
- 5
Result
The result of dividing (x^5 + 6x^4 - 3x^2 - 22x - 29) by (x + 6) is:
x^4 - 3x + 17 with a remainder of -5.
This can be written as:
(x^5 + 6x^4 - 3x^2 - 22x - 29) / (x + 6) = x^4 - 3x + 17 - 5/(x + 6)
Conclusion
Polynomial long division allows you to divide complex polynomials by simpler ones, finding the quotient and remainder. This is a useful technique in algebra and calculus for simplifying expressions and solving equations.