polynomials problem- wtf? (1 Viewer)

[jaggy snake]

So I am studying for my ext. maths test, and in the polynomials section in the prelim book (we were a little slow so we're only getting tested on it now) is the following question:

A polynomial P(x) of degree 3 has a triple root at x=1. Find P(x).

The obvious answer for me was P(x)= (x-1)^3.

But the answer in the book is P(x)= k(x-1)^3.

Where the hell does the k come into play? I'd ask my teacher but it's the weekend and I'd like to know soon. Thanks.

 

[vafa]

that is because the question does not say a monic polynomial.it that was the case you were right. but now you should be considering it in general term where the polynomial might be monic or not.

 

[jaggy snake]

ahh ok, because even if it's something like 5(x-1)^3 it's still got that triple root...

thanks heaps, i knew it'd be something daft like that.