For each polynomial function, identify its graph from choices A–F. ƒ(x)=-(x-2)(x-5)
Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 18m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations1h 43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 5m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 22m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
4. Polynomial Functions
Understanding Polynomial Functions
Problem 60
Textbook Question
Show that the real zeros of each polynomial function satisfy the given conditions. See Example 6.
; no real zero less than -1
Verified step by step guidance1
First, understand the problem: we need to show that the polynomial function \(f(x) = x^5 + 2x^3 - 2x^2 + 5x + 5\) has no real zeros less than \(-1\). This means that for all \(x < -1\), \(f(x) \neq 0\).
Step 1: Evaluate the function at \(x = -1\) to get a reference value. Calculate \(f(-1) = (-1)^5 + 2(-1)^3 - 2(-1)^2 + 5(-1) + 5\).
Step 2: Analyze the behavior of \(f(x)\) for values less than \(-1\). Consider the sign of \(f(x)\) for \(x < -1\) by testing a value less than \(-1\), for example \(x = -2\), and calculate \(f(-2)\).
Step 3: Use the Intermediate Value Theorem and the sign test results to argue whether \(f(x)\) can cross zero for \(x < -1\). If \(f(x)\) does not change sign in that interval, then there are no zeros less than \(-1\).
Step 4: Optionally, analyze the derivative \(f'(x)\) to understand the increasing or decreasing behavior of \(f(x)\) for \(x < -1\), which can help confirm the absence of zeros in that region.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Real Zeros of Polynomial Functions
Real zeros of a polynomial are the values of x for which the polynomial equals zero. These zeros correspond to the x-intercepts of the graph. Understanding how to find or estimate these zeros is essential for analyzing the behavior of the polynomial function.
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Polynomial Inequalities and Root Bounds
Root bounds provide intervals where real zeros of a polynomial can lie. Techniques like the Rational Root Theorem or using inequalities help determine if zeros exist within certain ranges, such as proving no zeros are less than a specific value.
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Nonlinear Inequalities
Evaluating Polynomial Values and Sign Changes
Evaluating the polynomial at specific points helps identify sign changes, which indicate the presence of zeros between those points. By checking values at strategic points, one can show whether zeros exist in certain intervals or confirm their absence.
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