Final answer:
To write a polynomial function of least degree with rational coefficients with the root 3-5i, we need to also include the conjugate of the root. The polynomial function is x^2 - 6x + 34.
Step-by-step explanation:
To write a polynomial function of least degree with rational coefficients that has the root 3-5i, we need to also include the conjugate of the root, which is 3+5i. This is because complex roots always come in conjugate pairs. So, the polynomial function would be:
P(x) = (x - (3 - 5i))(x - (3 + 5i))
To expand this, we can use the distributive property:
P(x) = (x - 3 + 5i)(x - 3 - 5i)
Expanding the expressions:
P(x) = (x - 3)(x - 3) + (x - 3)(-5i) + (5i)(x - 3) + (5i)(-5i)
Simplifying:
P(x) = (x^2 - 6x + 9) + (-5ix + 15i) + (5ix - 15i) + (25)
Combining like terms:
P(x) = x^2 - 6x + 9 - 5ix + 15i + 5ix - 15i + 25
Further simplifying:
P(x) = x^2 - 6x + 34