The equation " x^3-3x+1=0 " has three real roots. Show that one of the roots lies between −2 and −1

A simple way to prove this is to sub in the values that we are given. so f(x) will represent our equation x^3-3x+1 (that is f(x) = x^3-3x+1)f(-2) = -1 < 0f(-1) = 3 > 0The first thing we notice is that both answers are either side of zero. this is good as it indicates that if we where to graph the curve then one point will be at exactly zero and hence a root. For our previous statement to be correct we just need to know that the curve is continuous which it is. so hence this proves that there is a root between our two values

JB
Answered by James B. Maths tutor

9714 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Find the intersection points between the graphs y=2x+5 and y=x^2-9.


Integrate (12x^5 - 8x^3 + 3)dx giving the terms of the answer in the simplest terms


Susan is researching the population growth of a city. She proposes that x, the number of people in the city, t years after 2017 is given by x=250,000e^(0.012t) A.population in 2017 B.population in 2020 C.During which year would the population have doubled


How would I differentiate a function such as f(x)=x^3(e^(2x))?


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