Question

Find the value of $p(x) = x^2 + x + 1$ when $x = -1$.

Hint:

To evaluate a polynomial at a given value of $x$, simply substitute the value into the polynomial expression and simplify.

Answer 1

Step 1: Substitute $x = -1$ into the polynomial.
We are given $p(x) = x^2 + x + 1$. To find the value when $x = -1$, substitute $x = -1$ into the equation: \[ p(-1) = (-1)^2 + (-1) + 1 \]
Step 2: Simplify the expression.
\[ p(-1) = 1 - 1 + 1 = 1 \]
Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, the value of $p(x)$ when $x = -1$ is: \[ p(-1) = 1 \]