For each polynomial function, identify its graph from choices A–F. ƒ(x)=-(x-2)2(x-5)2
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
- Appendix 1. Review of Real Numbers2h 24m
- Appendix 2. Linear Equations and Inequalities3h 42m
- OLD 9. Sequences, Induction, and Probability Coming soon
- 1. - OLD - Fundamental Concepts of Algebra Coming soon
- 2. - OLD - Equations and Inequalities Coming soon
- OLD 4. Rational Functions Coming soon
- OLD 2. Functions & Graphs Coming soon
- OLD 6. Exponential and Logarithmic Functions Coming soon
- OLD 7. Systems of Equations and Inequalities Coming soon
- OLD 8. Matrices and Determinants Coming soon
- OLD 9. Conic Sections Coming soon
4. Polynomial Functions
Understanding Polynomial Functions
Problem 62
Textbook Question
Show that the real zeros of each polynomial function satisfy the given conditions. See Example 6.
; no real zero less than -2
Verified step by step guidance1
First, understand the problem: we need to show that the real zeros of the polynomial function \(f(x) = 3x^4 + 2x^3 - 4x^2 + x - 1\) are all greater than or equal to \(-2\), meaning there are no real zeros less than \(-2\).
Evaluate the polynomial at \(x = -2\) to check the sign of \(f(-2)\). Substitute \(x = -2\) into the polynomial: \(f(-2) = 3(-2)^4 + 2(-2)^3 - 4(-2)^2 + (-2) - 1\).
Next, analyze the behavior of \(f(x)\) for values less than \(-2\). One way is to check the sign of \(f(x)\) at a value less than \(-2\), for example at \(x = -3\), by substituting \(x = -3\) into the polynomial.
If \(f(-2)\) and \(f(-3)\) have the same sign (both positive or both negative), then by the Intermediate Value Theorem, there is no zero between \(-3\) and \(-2\). Repeat this for other values less than \(-2\) if necessary to confirm no sign changes occur.
Finally, conclude that since the polynomial does not change sign for \(x < -2\), there are no real zeros less than \(-2\). This shows all real zeros satisfy the condition of being greater than or equal to \(-2\).
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Real Zeros of Polynomial Functions
Real zeros of a polynomial are the values of x for which the polynomial equals zero. These zeros correspond to the x-intercepts of the graph. Finding real zeros often involves factoring, using the Rational Root Theorem, or applying numerical methods.
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Introduction to Polynomial Functions
Evaluating Polynomial Values to Test Inequalities
To verify conditions on zeros, such as no real zero less than a certain value, evaluate the polynomial at strategic points and analyze sign changes. This helps determine intervals where zeros may lie, using the Intermediate Value Theorem.
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Guided course
Example 2
Intermediate Value Theorem
The Intermediate Value Theorem states that if a continuous function changes sign over an interval, it must have a zero within that interval. This theorem is essential for locating zeros and confirming their position relative to given bounds.
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