OmegaLearn.org Chapter 1.

Algebra

Theorem 1.9.6 (Rational Root theorem)

In a polynomial
P (x) = an xn + an−1 xn−1 + . . . a1 x1 + a0
where an is nonzero and each ai is integral, all rational roots of the polynomial ± pq must
have

• p divides a0

• q divides an

Essentially,

• the numerators of all fractional roots divide the constant term of the polynomial

• the denominators of all fractional roots divide the coefficient of the largest degree
term.

Corollary 1.9.7 (Integer Root theorem)

In a polynomial
P (x) = an xn + an−1 xn−1 + . . . a1 x1 + a0
where an is nonzero and each ai is integral

• All integer roots of the polynomial must divide a0 or the constant term of the
polynomial

Remark 1.9.8
This means for polynomials with a leading coefficient of 1 (monic polynomials), the only
rational roots will be integers.

Theorem 1.9.9 (Remainder Theorem)

The remainder when when a polynomial P (x) is divided by x − r is P (r)

Corollary 1.9.10 (Factor Theorem)

x − r will divide a polynomial P (x) if P (r) = 0

This is a direct consequence of the remainder theorem.

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