Question

What must be true in order for a term x – a to be a factor of a polynomial f(x)?

A
a must be positive
B
f(a) = 0

C
f(a) must be positive
D
f(a) must be negative

Answer 1

Option B will be the correct one.

Explanation:

The factor of a polynomial, y = f(x) is obtained by making f(c) = 0 and then solving the equation f(c) = 0 for c and then from the obtained value of c we say (x - c) is a factor of the polynomial y = f(x).

Now, on the reverse, the term (x - a) will be a factor of a polynomial, y = f(x), if and only if f(a) = 0.

Therefore, option B will be the correct one. (Answer)