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
4:39 minutes
Problem 31a
Textbook Question
Textbook QuestionIn Exercises 25–32, find the zeros for each polynomial function and give the multiplicity for each zero. State whether the graph crosses the x-axis, or touches the x-axis and turns around, at each zero. f(x)=x^3+7x^2−4x−28
Verified Solution
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Video duration:
4mPlay a video:
Was this helpful?
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Zeros of a Polynomial
The zeros of a polynomial function are the values of x for which the function equals zero. These points are crucial as they represent the x-intercepts of the graph. To find the zeros, one typically sets the polynomial equal to zero and solves for x, which may involve factoring, using the quadratic formula, or synthetic division.
Recommended video:
03:42
Finding Zeros & Their Multiplicity
Multiplicity of Zeros
The multiplicity of a zero refers to the number of times a particular zero appears as a root of the polynomial. If a zero has an odd multiplicity, the graph will cross the x-axis at that zero. Conversely, if a zero has an even multiplicity, the graph will touch the x-axis and turn around at that point, indicating a change in direction without crossing.
Recommended video:
03:42
Finding Zeros & Their Multiplicity
Graph Behavior at Zeros
Understanding how a graph behaves at its zeros is essential for sketching the polynomial's graph. At a zero with odd multiplicity, the graph crosses the x-axis, while at a zero with even multiplicity, it merely touches the x-axis. This behavior helps in predicting the overall shape of the graph and the number of times it intersects the x-axis.
Recommended video:
05:01
Identifying Intervals of Unknown Behavior
Watch next
Master Introduction to Polynomial Functions with a bite sized video explanation from Callie
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice