What is the difference between roots and zeros

What is a polynomial equation? It is a polynomial set equal to 0. What do we mean by a root , or zero , of a polynomial? It is that value of x that makes the polynomial equal to 0. Example 1. Then a root of that polynomial is 1 because, according to the definition :. It is traditional to speak of a root of a polynomial. Of a function in general, we speak of a zero.

Those are the values of x that will make the polynomial equal to 0. What are the x -intercept and y -intercept of a graph?

The x -intercept is that value of x where the graph crosses or touches the x -axis. The y -intercept is that value of y where the graph crosses the y -axis. What is the relationship between the root of a polynomial.

Therefore, the graph of. It only takes a minute to sign up. Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search. What exactly is the difference between a root of a polynomial, and a zero? Of course I realise that they are technically exactly the same thing, but there seem to be subtle rules as to when to use each term, and a couple of times in the past I have been told I am using "root" where I should be using "zero".

Is it generally accepted that one should use "root" in an algebraic context, and "zero" in a analytic context? If not, when should one use one or the other The rule of thumbs: zero refers to the function e. Don't use "root" in Australia. It has a very different meaning. Sign up to join this community. The best answers are voted up and rise to the top. Stack Overflow for Teams — Collaborate and share knowledge with a private group.

Create a free Team What is Teams? Learn more. Root or zero Ask Question. Asked 9 years, 11 months ago. Active 5 years, 9 months ago. Viewed 21k times. Add a comment. Active Oldest Votes. Ilya Ilya Mangayarkarasi P.