If the graph of a polynomial function cuts the x-axis at x = -2, x = 1 and x = 5, what is the sum of its zeros?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: 4
The x-values where the graph meets the x-axis are the zeros of the polynomial. So the sum = (−2) + 1 + 5 = 4. The nearest distractor 8 is wrong — it might arise from adding absolute values or a calculation error. Exam tip: directly add the x-coordinates of x-intercepts (with their signs) to get the sum of zeros.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
4
Why is this the correct answer?
The x-values where the graph meets the x-axis are the zeros of the polynomial. So the sum = (−2) + 1 + 5 = 4. The nearest distractor 8 is wrong — it might arise from adding absolute values or a calculation error. Exam tip: directly add the x-coordinates of x-intercepts (with their signs) to get the sum of zeros.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Mathematics question. Chapter: Polynomials. Topic: Geometrical meaning of the zeroes of a polynomial..
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