Assume that a polynomial, P(x), has n real roots in theinterval [a,b]. Show that P^((n-1))(x) has at least one real root in teh interval[a,b].

Ashlynn Hale

Ashlynn Hale

Answered question

2022-08-05

Assume that a polynomial, P(x), has n real roots in theinterval [a,b]. Show that P ( n 1 ) ( x ) has at least one real root in teh interval[a,b].

Answer & Explanation

kunstdansvo

kunstdansvo

Beginner2022-08-06Added 16 answers

A polynomial is continuous everywhere. The n t h derivatives ofthe polynomial are all continuous.
This problem uses Rolles Theorem multiple times. Between a andb there are n real roots we can call x 1 through x n . Between x k and x k + 1 there is a pt y k such that p prime is equal to 0. We therefore have n-1 pts where p primeis equal to zero. We now apply Rolles theorem to every pair ofconsecutive pts where p prime is equal to zero. We now have n-2 points where p double prime is zero. We extend this untill we getto n - (n-1) points where the n-1 derivative of p is equal to zero.

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