What is the remainder when the polynomial P(x) = 3x³ - 2x² + x - 5 is divided by (x + 2)?

A -15

B -39

C -17

D 29

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

By the Remainder Theorem, the remainder is P(-2). P(-2) = 3(-2)³ - 2(-2)² + (-2) - 5 = 3(-8) - 2(4) - 2 - 5 = -24 - 8 - 2 - 5 = -39.

💡 Why is B) the correct answer?

The correct answer to the question "What is the remainder when the polynomial P(x) = 3x³ - 2x² + x - 5 is divided by (x + 2)?" is Option B: -39.

The other options — A) -15, C) -17, D) 29 — are incorrect for this CLEP Exam Prep question. As explained above: By the Remainder Theorem, the remainder is P(-2). P(-2) = 3(-2)³ - 2(-2)² + (-2) - 5 = 3(-8) - 2(4) - 2 - 5 = -24 - 8 - 2 - 5 = -39.

📚 About This CLEP Exam Prep Practice Question

This 3-level CLEP Exam Prep question from the College Algebra topic is part of BrainForge Quiz's free exam preparation library. Each question includes the correct answer and a detailed explanation to help you understand the underlying concept, not just memorize the answer.

How to use this page: Read the question above, consider all four options (A through D), then check the highlighted correct answer and explanation. For active timed practice, start a free CLEP Exam Prep practice test or use flashcards for spaced repetition review.

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What is the remainder when the polynomial P(x) = 3x³ - 2x² + x - 5 is divided by (x + 2)?

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

📚 About This CLEP Exam Prep Practice Question

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