The roots of polynomials are the values of the variable that make the polynomial equal to zero. For example, in the polynomial f(x) = x² - 4, the roots are x = 2 and x = -2 because substituting these values into the equation results in zero. Finding these roots is essential in various fields, including mathematics and engineering. Roots can be real or complex numbers, depending on the polynomial. A polynomial of degree n can have up to n roots, according to the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra. Techniques like factoring, using the quadratic formula, or graphing can help identify these roots effectively.