Author: Richmond, Bettina

Source: The College Mathematics Journal, Volume 41, Number 5, November 2010 , pp. 400-403(4)

Publisher: Mathematical Association of America

Abstract:

It seems rather surprising that any given polynomial p(x) with nonnegative integer coefficients can be determined by just the two values p(1) and p(a), where a is any integer greater than p(1). This result has become known as the “perplexing polynomial puzzle”. Here, we address the natural question of what might be required to determine a polynomial with integer coefficients, if the condition that the coefficients be nonnegative is removed.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4169/074683410X522017

Publication date: 2010-11-01

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• The College Mathematics Journal is designed to enhance classroom learning and stimulate thinking regarding undergraduate mathematics. CMJ publishes articles, short Classroom Capsules, problems, solutions, media reviews and other pieces. All are aimed at the college mathematics curriculum with emphasis on topics taught in the first two years.
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