Rewrite 4-5x-x2+6x3 in descending powers of x.
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 34
Textbook Question
Graph each polynomial function. Factor first if the polynomial is not in factored form. ƒ(x)=x2(x-5)(x+3)(x-1)
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the given polynomial function: \(f(x) = x^2 (x - 5)(x + 3)(x - 1)\).
Since the polynomial is already factored, note the roots by setting each factor equal to zero: \(x^2 = 0\), \(x - 5 = 0\), \(x + 3 = 0\), and \(x - 1 = 0\).
Solve each equation to find the zeros of the function: \(x = 0\) (with multiplicity 2), \(x = 5\), \(x = -3\), and \(x = 1\).
Determine the behavior of the graph at each zero, especially noting that \(x=0\) has multiplicity 2, which means the graph touches the x-axis and turns around at this point, while the other zeros with multiplicity 1 cross the x-axis.
Choose test points in each interval determined by the zeros to find the sign of \(f(x)\) in those intervals, then sketch the graph accordingly, considering the end behavior based on the leading term when the polynomial is expanded.
Verified video answer for a similar problem:This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Video duration:
6mPlay a video:
Was this helpful?
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 and coefficients combined using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and non-negative integer exponents. Understanding the degree and leading term helps predict the general shape and end behavior of the graph.
Recommended video:
Introduction to Polynomial Functions
Factoring Polynomials
Factoring involves rewriting a polynomial as a product of simpler polynomials or factors. This process reveals the roots or zeros of the function, which correspond to the x-intercepts on the graph, making it easier to plot the function accurately.
Recommended video:
Guided course
Introduction to Factoring Polynomials
Graphing Polynomial Functions
Graphing involves plotting key points such as zeros, determining the multiplicity of roots to understand the behavior at intercepts, and analyzing end behavior based on the leading term. This helps visualize the shape and important features of the polynomial.
Recommended video:
Graphing Polynomial Functions
Watch next
Master Introduction to Polynomial Functions with a bite sized video explanation from Patrick
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Textbook Question
759
views
