Help: Factorizing Polynomial p(x) = x^6 + x^4 + x^2 + 1

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the polynomial p(x) = x^6 + x^4 + x^2 + 1 and its relationship to the equation x^8 - 1 = 0. Participants are exploring the factorization of p(x) over the real numbers and questioning the nature of its roots.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants attempt to show that the roots of p(x) relate to the roots of x^8 - 1. Others express confusion about the polynomial's behavior, particularly regarding its minimum value and intersection with the x-axis. There are also mentions of complex numbers in the context of the solutions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with various interpretations being explored. Some participants have provided partial factorization attempts, while others are questioning the assumptions about the polynomial's roots and their implications.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the implications of the polynomial's minimum point and its potential intersections with the x-axis, as well as the involvement of complex numbers in the solutions.

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if p(x ) = x^6 + x^4 + x^2 + 1

show that the solutions of the equation p(x ) = 0 are among the solutions of the equation x^8 - 1 = 0

hence factorse p(x ) fully over R
 
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Excuse my ignorance but I don't see how p(x) can ever intersect with the X axis? Its minimum point is (0, 1)... :confused:
 
this has complexy number i involved~
 
answer = [tex](x^2+1)(x^2+\sqrt{2}x+1)(x^2-\sqrt{2}x+1)[/tex] but i don't see how
 
Last edited:
[tex]p_{(x)} = x^6 + x^4 + x^2 + 1 = x^4(x^2 + 1) + x^2 + 1 = (x^2 + 1)(x^4 + 1) = 0[/tex]

So either (1) [tex]x^4 = -1[/tex] or (2) [tex]x^2 = -1[/tex]

Now what are the solutions for [tex]x^8 = 1[/tex]?
[tex]x^4 = \pm 1[/tex]
If [tex]x^4 = -1[/tex] we see that it will include the two solutions of equation (1). If [tex]x^4 = 1[/tex] then we can say that [tex]x^2 = \pm 1[/tex] and again, if [tex]x^2 = -1[/tex] we see it will include the two solutions of equation (2).
 
did you post this in maths section as well?
 

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