*finding zero of order 4 polynominial

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the zeros of the polynomial function $$f(x)=16x^4+3x^2-2$$. Participants explore methods for solving this fourth-order polynomial, including the application of the quadratic formula and transformations of variables.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests using the quadratic formula by substituting $$u=x^2$$, leading to a proposed solution for the zeros.
  • Another participant claims that the correct application of the quadratic formula yields a different expression for the zeros, specifically involving a factor of 32.
  • Several participants propose simplifying the polynomial by dividing by 2, which leads to a reformulated equation.
  • There is a discussion about the transformation of coefficients during the application of the quadratic formula, particularly regarding the factor of $$\frac{1}{16}$$ and its relation to the final result.
  • One participant notes that the square root operation alters the factor from $$\frac{1}{16}$$ to $$\frac{1}{4}$$, indicating a potential source of confusion in the calculations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the correct application of the quadratic formula and the resulting factors in the solutions. There is no consensus on the final form of the zeros, as multiple interpretations and calculations are presented.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not fully resolve the discrepancies in their calculations, and assumptions regarding the application of the quadratic formula and the simplification steps remain implicit.

karush
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Find the zeros
$$f(x)=16x^4+3x^2-2$$
ok I presume we can solve this with the quadratic formula even with powers of 4 and 2
by setting $u=x^2$ I was able to get$$x=\pm\sqrt{-\frac{3}{2}+\frac{\sqrt{137}}{2}}$$but $W\vert A$ says the answer is$$x=\pm\frac{1}{4}\sqrt{-\frac{3}{2}+\frac{\sqrt{137}}{2}}$$where does the $\frac{1}{4}$ come from?

$$\tiny{140.56}$$
 
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You should get (when applying the quadratic formula and discarding the complex roots):

$$x=\pm\sqrt{-\frac{3}{32}+\frac{\sqrt{137}}{32}}$$

The 32 comes from twice the coefficient of the 4th degree term. And this is equivalent to W|A's result.
 
Start by dividing by 2: 8x^4 + (3/2)x^2 - 1 = 0
 
Wilmer said:
Start by dividing by 2: 8x^4 + (3/2)x^2 - 1 = 0

\begin{align}\displaystyle
y&=8x^4 + (3/2)x^2 - 1 \\
&=\frac{-(3/2)\pm\sqrt{(3/2)^2-4(8)(-1)}}{2(8)}\\
&=\frac{1}{16} \left(-\frac{3}{2} \pm \frac{\sqrt{137}}{2}\right)
\end{align}

maybe:rolleyes:
 
The square root of that changes the 1/16 to 1/4
 

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