POLYNOMIALS AND N-TH ROOTS: A PERSPECTIVE FOR THE TEACHING OF MATHEMATICS

Abstract

Polynomials are a central topic in both basic and advanced mathematics education, playing an essential role in the development of functional reasoning and algebraic thinking. Among the various approaches to studying their roots, nth roots stand out for enabling students to visualize structural properties of polynomials and to connect ideas from Arithmetic, Algebra, and Complex Numbers. In this paper, we present an accessible study of nth roots, roots of unity, and primitive roots of unity, using De Moivre’s Formula as a key tool. This approach aims to expand students’ conceptual and visual understanding of polynomials, strengthening important connections that are often underexplored in high school curricula. Through geometric and algebraic examples, we show that nth roots constitute an effective and motivating strategy for teaching polynomial structures.