t^3 - 6t^2 + 7t - 12 = 0 - High Altitude Science

Understanding the Context

What Is the Equation t³ – 6t² + 7t – 12 = 0?

This is a cubic polynomial equation in one variable, t. Unlike quadratic equations, which have at most two solutions, cubic equations can have one real root and two complex conjugate roots, or three real roots. Solving such equations requires specific algebraic and numerical techniques. Recognizing the behavior of cubic functions is key to finding accurate, precise solutions.

Step-by-Step Methods to Solve t³ – 6t² + 7t – 12 = 0

Key Insights

1. Rational Root Theorem

To find possible rational roots, apply the Rational Root Theorem, which states possible rational roots are factors of the constant term (−12) divided by factors of the leading coefficient (1):

Possible rational roots: ±1, ±2, ±3, ±4, ±6, ±12

Test these values by substituting into the equation:

• For t = 1:
  1³ – 6(1)² + 7(1) – 12 = 1 – 6 + 7 – 12 = –10 ≠ 0
  
• For t = 2:
  8 – 24 + 14 – 12 = –14 ≠ 0
  
• For t = 3:
  27 – 54 + 21 – 12 = –18 ≠ 0
  
• For t = 4:
  64 – 96 + 28 – 12 = –16 ≠ 0
  
• For t = 3? Wait — let’s check t = 3 again:
  27 – 54 + 21 – 12 = –18
  Still not zero.

Final Thoughts

Hmm — no rational root among simple candidates. This suggests the equation may have irrational or complex roots, or we may need numerical or factoring approaches.

2. Graphical & Numerical Methods

Since no rational root is easily found, use a graphing calculator or numerical methods like Newton-Raphson to approximate roots.

Evaluate the function at a few points to identify root intervals:

| t | f(t) = t³ – 6t² + 7t – 12 |
|------|--------------------------|
| 1 | –10 |
| 2 | –14 |
| 3 | –18 |
| 4 | –16 |
| 5 | 125 – 150 + 35 – 12 = -2 ← sign change between t=4 and t=5
| 5.5 | (approx) more positive → root between 4 and 5.5