Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
4. Polynomial Functions
Understanding Polynomial Functions
4:14 minutes
Problem 23b
Textbook Question
Textbook QuestionUse an end behavior diagram, , , , or , to describe the end behavior of the graph of each polynomial function. See Example 2. ƒ(x)=-4x^3+3x^2-1
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
End Behavior of Polynomials
The end behavior of a polynomial function describes how the function behaves as the input values (x) approach positive or negative infinity. This behavior is primarily determined by the leading term of the polynomial, which is the term with the highest degree. For example, in the polynomial f(x) = -4x^3 + 3x^2 - 1, the leading term is -4x^3, indicating that as x approaches infinity, f(x) will approach negative infinity, and as x approaches negative infinity, f(x) will approach positive infinity.
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Leading Coefficient
The leading coefficient of a polynomial is the coefficient of the term with the highest degree. It plays a crucial role in determining the direction of the graph's end behavior. In the given polynomial f(x) = -4x^3 + 3x^2 - 1, the leading coefficient is -4. Since it is negative and the degree of the polynomial is odd, this indicates that the graph will fall to the right and rise to the left.
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Degree of a Polynomial
The degree of a polynomial is the highest exponent of the variable in the polynomial expression. It influences the shape and end behavior of the graph. For instance, in f(x) = -4x^3 + 3x^2 - 1, the degree is 3, which is odd. Odd-degree polynomials have opposite end behaviors, meaning one end of the graph will rise while the other falls, which is essential for sketching the end behavior diagram.
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