Evaluating the Product of Polynomials: (x-a)(x-b)(x-c)...

In summary, the conversation is discussing the product of a series of expressions, specifically (x-a)(x-b)(x-c)....= ?(x^2 - bx - ax + ab)(x-c). The final answer is x^3 - (a+b+c)x^2 + (ab + ac + bc)x - abc. The conversation also briefly mentions the product of a series of expressions involving x, y, and z, which simplifies to 0. The conversation ends with a comment about the need for clearer communication.
  • #1
vikasj007
162
1
well i could not get anything really mibd boggling, so u will have to put up with this one

what is the product of:

(x-a)(x-b)(x-c)..... = ?
 
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  • #2
[tex] (x^2 - bx - ax + ab)(x-c) [/tex]

[tex] = x^3 - cx^2 - bx^2 + cbx - ax^2 +cax + abx - cab [/tex]

What the hell was the point? Basic algebra, without even a nice expansion.

EDIT *sigh*, yeah ok, had to collect terms, it looked so bad otherwise:

[tex] = x^3 - (a+b+c)x^2 + (ab + ac + bc)x - abc [/tex]
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Haha, haven't seen that one in a long time :rofl:

(x - a)(x - b) ... (x - x)(x - y)(x - z) = 0

since x - x = 0
 
  • #4
what in the world was cepheid trying to do?

next time try to read carefully.
 
  • #5
vilkasj007, u should have written it more clearly. something like this:
(x-a)(x-b)...(x-y)(x-z) = ?
 

What is the purpose of evaluating the product of polynomials?

The purpose of evaluating the product of polynomials is to simplify and solve algebraic expressions involving multiple variables and exponents. This process is essential in many areas of mathematics, physics, and engineering.

How do you evaluate the product of polynomials?

To evaluate the product of polynomials, you can use the distributive property to multiply each term in one polynomial by each term in the other polynomial. Then, you can combine like terms and simplify the resulting expression. Another method is to use the FOIL method, which stands for First, Outer, Inner, Last, to multiply two binomials together.

What are the common mistakes to avoid when evaluating the product of polynomials?

Some common mistakes to avoid when evaluating the product of polynomials include incorrectly using the distributive property, forgetting to combine like terms, and making errors with signs and exponents. It is essential to carefully follow each step and double-check your work to avoid these mistakes.

Can the product of polynomials be evaluated with more than three factors?

Yes, the product of polynomials can be evaluated with more than three factors. The same principles of the distributive property and combining like terms still apply. The process may become more complex with more factors, but the same methods can be used.

When is it necessary to evaluate the product of polynomials?

Evaluating the product of polynomials is necessary in various situations, such as solving equations, finding the roots of a polynomial, and simplifying complex expressions. It is also used in real-world applications, such as calculating areas and volumes in geometry and solving problems in physics and engineering.

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