Difference between revisions of "Remainder Theorem"

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<math>P(-1) = (-1)^2+2(-1)+3 = 1-2+3 = \boxed{2}</math>
 
<math>P(-1) = (-1)^2+2(-1)+3 = 1-2+3 = \boxed{2}</math>
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Revision as of 23:04, 10 January 2012

Theorem

The Remainder Theorem states that the remainder when the polynomial $P(x)$ is divided by $x-a$(usually with synthetic division) is equal to the simplified value of $P(a)$

Examples

Example 1

What is the remainder in $\frac{x^2+2x+3}{x+1}$?

Solution

Using synthetic or long division we obtain the quotient $x+1+\frac{2}{x^2+2x+3}$. In this case the remainder is $2$. However, we could've figured that out by evaluating $P(-1)$. Remember, we want the divisor in the form of $x-a$. $x+1=x-(-1)$ so $a=-1$.

$P(-1) = (-1)^2+2(-1)+3 = 1-2+3 = \boxed{2}$

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