Find Expression for Cubic Function: f(1)=6, f(-1)=0, f(0)=f(2)=0

[DrDanger]

Homework Statement

Find an expression for a cubic function (f) if f(1)=6 and f(-1)=f(0)=f(2)=0

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I tried to graph the points and find an equation for the function, but couldn't.

 

[Bohrok]

Do you know about the relationship between zeros of a function and its factors?

 

[DrDanger]

Do you know about the relationship between zeros of a function and its factors?

yeah the factors are the zeros, right?

 

[Bohrok]

Yes. You know what values of x make the function 0, so how do you write the zeros as factors?

 

[DrDanger]

Yes. You know what values of x make the function 0, so how do you write the zeros as factors?

(x+1)(x-2)?

 

[Bohrok]

(x+1)(x-2)?

You have two; what's the last one?

 

[DrDanger]

You have two; what's the last one?

(x+6) lol I have no idea! I know it involves f(1)=6 though

 

[Bohrok]

If your cubic function has a root at x = 0 ( because f(0) = 0), might you write the factor something like (x + 0)? How would you rewrite that factor and put it with the other two factors?