Polynomial functions and their roots

  • Polynomial Relations
    problem
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    Polynomial Relations

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    Given any two polynomials in a single variable it is always possible to eliminate the variable and obtain a formula showing the relationship between the two polynomials. Try this one.
  • Common Divisor
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    Common Divisor

    Age
    14 to 16
    Challenge level
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    Find the largest integer which divides every member of the following sequence: 1^5-1, 2^5-2, 3^5-3, ... n^5-n.
  • Mechanical Integration
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    Mechanical Integration

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    To find the integral of a polynomial, evaluate it at some special points and add multiples of these values.
  • Spinners
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    Spinners

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    How do scores on dice and factors of polynomials relate to each other?
  • Root to Poly
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    Root to Poly

    Age
    14 to 16
    Challenge level
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    Find the polynomial p(x) with integer coefficients such that one solution of the equation p(x)=0 is $1+\sqrt 2+\sqrt 3$.
  • Exploring cubic functions
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    Exploring Cubic Functions

    Age
    14 to 18
    Challenge level
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    Quadratic graphs are very familiar, but what patterns can you explore with cubics?

  • Curve fitter
    problem
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    Curve Fitter

    Age
    14 to 18
    Challenge level
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    This problem challenges you to find cubic equations which satisfy different conditions.

  • Two Cubes
    problem

    Two Cubes

    Age
    14 to 16
    Challenge level
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    Two cubes, each with integral side lengths, have a combined volume equal to the total of the lengths of their edges. How big are the cubes? [If you find a result by 'trial and error' you'll need to prove you have found all possible solutions.]
  • Symmetrically So
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    Symmetrically So

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    Exploit the symmetry and turn this quartic into a quadratic.
  • Janusz asked
    problem

    Janusz Asked

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    In y = ax +b when are a, -b/a, b in arithmetic progression. The polynomial y = ax^2 + bx + c has roots r1 and r2. Can a, r1, b, r2 and c be in arithmetic progression?