How Can Polynomial Remainders Reveal Patterns in Algebra?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the application of polynomial division, specifically using the example of (x^2 + 2x + 1)/(x-7), which yields a quotient of x + 9 and a remainder of 64/(x-7). The tutor explores how setting x-7 equal to the divisors of 64 allows for the determination of specific integer values for x, revealing a pattern in the results. This method demonstrates a shortcut for solving polynomial equations and suggests potential applications in different bases and polynomial forms.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of polynomial division
  • Familiarity with remainders in algebra
  • Knowledge of divisors and their properties
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore polynomial long division techniques
  • Learn about the Remainder Theorem in algebra
  • Investigate applications of polynomial roots and factors
  • Study the implications of using different bases in polynomial equations
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Students and educators in algebra, particularly those interested in polynomial functions and their properties, as well as anyone looking to enhance their problem-solving skills in algebraic contexts.

coolul007
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While tutoring Algebra, division of polynomials, I ran across those problems with remainders. As an example: (x^2 + 2x + 1)/(x-7) the result is x + 9 with a remainder of 64/(x-7). I then assumed that the remainder was a positive integer and set x-7 equal to the divisors of 64 and solved for x.
x - 7 = 1, x = 8 then the original polynomial became 64+16+1, or 81 of course is divisible by 1.
x - 7 = 2, x = 9, 81+18+1 = 100, 2(50)
x - 7 = 4, x = 11, 121+22+1 = 144, 4(36)
x - 7 = 8, x = 15, 225+30+1 = 256, 8(32)
x - 7 = 16, x = 23, 529+46+1 = 576, 16(36)
x - 7 = 32, x = 39, 1521+78+1 = 1600, 32(50)
x - 7 = 64, x = 71, 5041+142+1 = 5184, 64(81)

I thought this was interesting, however, I could not think of a problem where I could apply this solution. It may work for solving for different bases, etc.
 
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This is tricky method to solve, yes definitely this method is going to use to find the value of X, this is sort cut method to solve this problem of finding the value of x
 
coolul007 said:
While tutoring Algebra, division of polynomials, I ran across those problems with remainders. As an example: (x^2 + 2x + 1)/(x-7) the result is x + 9 with a remainder of 64/(x-7). I then assumed that the remainder was a positive integer and set x-7 equal to the divisors of 64 and solved for x.
x - 7 = 1, x = 8 then the original polynomial became 64+16+1, or 81 of course is divisible by 1.
x - 7 = 2, x = 9, 81+18+1 = 100, 2(50)
x - 7 = 4, x = 11, 121+22+1 = 144, 4(36)
x - 7 = 8, x = 15, 225+30+1 = 256, 8(32)
x - 7 = 16, x = 23, 529+46+1 = 576, 16(36)
x - 7 = 32, x = 39, 1521+78+1 = 1600, 32(50)
x - 7 = 64, x = 71, 5041+142+1 = 5184, 64(81)

I thought this was interesting, however, I could not think of a problem where I could apply this solution. It may work for solving for different bases, etc.
You would get similar results if you chose x - 2^n + 1 in lieu of x - 7. Or try other negative prime powers plus 1.
 

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