Show that the equation x4 +4x+c = 0 has at most two real solutions.
A look at graphs of f(x)=x4+4x+c for some values of c suggests that the equation may have zero, one, or two roots, but no more. We can use Rolle’s theorem to prove this is in fact the case.
Suppose that the equation has three or more real solutions. Label three of them x1, x2, and x3 so that x1 x2 x3 Define a related function f(x)=x4+4x+c and note that solutions of the given equation are the zeros of this function: that is, f(x1)= f(x2)= f(x3)=0 Since f(x) is a polynomial, it is continuous and differentiable for all real numbers. Rolle’s theorem applies, then, and according to Rolle’s theorem there must be a number a between x1 and x2 for which f(a) = 0. Similarly, there must be a number b between x2 and x3 for which f(b)=0. Observe though: f(x)=0: 4x3+4=0 4(x3+1)=0 x3+1=0 x3 =−1 x=−1 The derivative is only zero when x=−1. This falls short of the required two solutions. Therefore, the equation can have at most two real roots.
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