The value x from the domain of a function f for which f(x) = 0.
Example
The values –2 and 3 are zeros of the function represented below, since f(–2) = 0 and f(3) = 0.
Educational Note
The expression zero of a function should not be confused with the expression solution to an equation.
In the case of a function f defined by the equation y = x² – 7x + 12, the values 3 and 4 are the zeros of the function f since f(3) = f(4) = 0.
Also, 3 and 4 are the solutions to the equation x² – 7x + 12 = 0.