# Thread: Finding the zeros for a polynomial function

1. ## Finding the zeros for a polynomial function

Hi,

I hope someone can help. I'm trying to determine the x-intercept for the following polynomial function: y = - (2x + 5)^4 - 20

The answer is apparently -3.86, but I don't see how I would get to such solution. Could someone please provide the algebraic steps to get to this?

Thanks,
Olivia

2. ## Re: Finding the zeros for a polynomial function

Originally Posted by otownsend
Hi,

I hope someone can help. I'm trying to determine the x-intercept for the following polynomial function: y = - (2x + 5)^4 - 20

The answer is apparently -3.86, but I don't see how I would get to such solution. Could someone please provide the algebraic steps to get to this?
$y = -(2x+5)^4 - 20$ does not have an x-intercept since $y < 0$ for all $x \in \mathbb{R}$

did you post the function correctly?

3. ## Re: Finding the zeros for a polynomial function

Yes, you're correct about me not typing out the function correctly. The function is actually to the degree of 3, as opposed to 4. I was able to solve it.