Three researchers from Bristol University are seeking to develop methods for analysing the distribution of integer solutions to polynomial equations. How do you know when a polynomial equation has ...

We solve polynomials algebraically in order to determine the roots - where a curve cuts the \(x\)-axis. A root of a polynomial function, \(f(x)\), is a value for \(x\) for which \(f(x) = 0\).

You'll just have to trust me that I got this right. Well okay, the coefficients aren't all that simple. Then there's that ominous-looking ellipsis at the end, which hints of more terms to come. Even ...

So, if \((x - a)\) is a factor, \(f(a) = 0\). To find the answer, you need to try dividing the polynomial by simple factors to see which one gives a remainder of zero.