Polynomial Characteristics Check

Front

What is the degree of a polynomial?

Back

The degree of a polynomial is the highest power of the variable in the polynomial expression.

Front

How do you determine the leading coefficient of a polynomial?

Back

The leading coefficient is the coefficient of the term with the highest degree in the polynomial.

Front

What does an even degree polynomial indicate about its end behavior?

Back

An even degree polynomial will have the same end behavior on both sides; both ends will either rise or fall.

Front

What does an odd degree polynomial indicate about its end behavior?

Back

An odd degree polynomial will have opposite end behavior; one end will rise while the other falls.

Front

What is a turning point in a polynomial function?

Back

A turning point is where the graph changes direction from increasing to decreasing or vice versa.

Front

What is a relative maximum?

Back

A relative maximum is a point on the graph of a function where the function value is higher than all nearby points.

Front

What is a relative minimum?

Back

A relative minimum is a point on the graph of a function where the function value is lower than all nearby points.

Front

How can you find the zeros of a polynomial?

Back

The zeros of a polynomial can be found by setting the polynomial equal to zero and solving for the variable.

Front

What is the significance of the leading coefficient's sign?

Back

The sign of the leading coefficient determines the direction of the graph's end behavior.

Front

What is the difference between a positive and negative leading coefficient?

Back

A positive leading coefficient means the graph rises to the right, while a negative leading coefficient means it falls to the right.