Graphing polynomial functions

Front

What is a relative maximum in a polynomial function?

Back

A relative maximum is the highest point in a particular section of the graph of a polynomial function, where the function changes from increasing to decreasing.

Front

What is a relative minimum in a polynomial function?

Back

A relative minimum is the lowest point in a particular section of the graph of a polynomial function, where the function changes from decreasing to increasing.

Front

What are the zeros of the polynomial y = 3(x + 4)(x + 1)(x - 3)?

Back

The zeros are -4, -1, and 3.

Front

What is another way to say 'where a function crosses the x-axis'?

Back

x-intercept, zero, root - all of these.

Front

What is the factored form of a function if it has zeros of 2, 3, and -1?

Back

(x-2)(x-3)(x+1)

Front

How do you find the zeros of a polynomial function?

Back

Set the polynomial equal to zero and solve for x.

Front

What does the degree of a polynomial indicate about its graph?

Back

The degree indicates the maximum number of turning points and the end behavior of the graph.

Front

What is the end behavior of a polynomial function of even degree?

Back

The ends of the graph will either both rise or both fall.

Front

What is the end behavior of a polynomial function of odd degree?

Back

One end of the graph will rise while the other end will fall.

Front

What is the significance of the leading coefficient in a polynomial function?

Back

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