Use the factor theorem to show that (x-1) is a factor of x^3 - 3x^2 -13x + 15

If (x-1) is a factor of x3 - 3x2 -13x + 15 then one of the solutions for x must be x = 1.(This is because, if (x-1) is a factor of this equation then it is true that x-1=0, because this is a point where the curve crosses the x axis and therefore is = to 0. Solving x-1=0 gives x=1)Because we know that if (x-1) is a factor of the curve, the equation must equal 0 when x=1, we can just substitute this in as such:(1)3 - 3(1)2 -13(1) + 15= 1 - 3 - 13 + 15= 16 -16 = 0Therefore we can conclude, using the factor theorem that (x-1) is a factor of x3 - 3x2 -13x + 15

JB
Answered by James B. Further Mathematics tutor

4342 Views

See similar Further Mathematics GCSE tutors

Related Further Mathematics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Using differentiation, show that f(x) = 2x^3 - 12x^2 + 25x - 11 is an increasing function.


Expand (2x+3)^4


A ladder of length 2L and mass m is placed leaning against a wall, making an angle t with the floor. The coefficient of friction between all surfaces is c. At what angle t does the ladder begin to slip?


In a chess club there are x boys and y girls. If ten more boys join and one more girl joins, there is an equal amount of boys and girls. Knowing that y = 2x+2, Calculate x and y. [4 marks]


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning