Graph each polynomial function. Factor first if the polynomial is not in factored form. ƒ(x)=x4+3x3-3x2-11x-6
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 49
Textbook Question
Graph each polynomial function. ƒ(x)=2x3+x2-x
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the polynomial function given: \(f(x) = 2x^3 + x^2 - x\).
Find the x-intercepts by setting \(f(x) = 0\) and solving the equation \$2x^3 + x^2 - x = 0$. Factor the polynomial to find the roots.
Determine the y-intercept by evaluating \(f(0)\), which is the constant term or the value of the function when \(x=0\).
Find the critical points by computing the first derivative \(f'(x)\) and setting it equal to zero: \(f'(x) = \frac{d}{dx}(2x^3 + x^2 - x)\). Solve \(f'(x) = 0\) to find potential maxima, minima, or points of inflection.
Use the critical points and intercepts to sketch the graph, considering the end behavior of the cubic function (as \(x \to \pm \infty\), \(f(x) \to \pm \infty\) depending on the leading term).
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Polynomial Functions
A polynomial function is an expression consisting of variables raised to whole-number exponents and coefficients combined using addition, subtraction, and multiplication. Understanding the degree and leading coefficient helps predict the general shape and end behavior of the graph.
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Graphing Cubic Functions
Cubic functions are polynomial functions of degree three, typically having an S-shaped curve. Key features include intercepts, turning points, and end behavior, which depend on the sign and magnitude of the leading coefficient.
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Graphs of Logarithmic Functions
Finding Intercepts and Critical Points
To graph a polynomial, find the x-intercepts by solving ƒ(x)=0 and the y-intercept by evaluating ƒ(0). Critical points, found by setting the derivative equal to zero, indicate local maxima or minima, helping to sketch the curve accurately.
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