A polynomial \(a_nz^n+a_{n-1}z^{n-1}+\cdots+a_1z+a_0\), where \(a_n\ne0\), has exactly \(n\) roots in \(\mathbb C\), counted with multiplicity.
If a polynomial has real coefficients and \(z\) is a non-real root, then \(z^*\) is also a root with the same multiplicity.
Therefore non-real roots of a real-coefficient polynomial occur in conjugate pairs.
| Degree | Real roots | Non-real complex roots | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 (quadratic) | 2 | 0 | 2 |
| 0 | 2 | ||
| 3 (cubic) | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| 1 | 2 | ||
| 4 (quartic) | 4 | 0 | 4 |
| 2 | 2 | ||
| 0 | 4 | ||
| 5 (quintic) | 5 | 0 | 5 |
| 3 | 2 | ||
| 1 | 4 |
The counts include multiplicity. A repeated real root is counted each time it occurs.
A number \(\alpha\) is a root of \(P(z)=0\) precisely when substituting it gives \(P(\alpha)=0\).
Video solution locked
A free account saves your progress; this video needs tuition enrolment.
680+ questions here come with free worked solutions. A free account saves your questions and progress; this one needs tuition enrolment.
Create a free account to practise similar questions.
Need help? Join our JC Math tuition classes.
Learn more