End Behavior of Polynomials

Front

What determines the end behavior of a polynomial function?

Back

The end behavior of a polynomial function is determined by the degree of the polynomial and the sign of the leading coefficient.

Front

What is the end behavior of a polynomial with a positive leading coefficient and an even degree?

Back

Both ends of the graph will rise (up, up).

Front

What is the end behavior of a polynomial with a positive leading coefficient and an odd degree?

Back

The left end of the graph will fall (down) and the right end will rise (up).

Front

What is the end behavior of a polynomial with a negative leading coefficient and an even degree?

Back

Both ends of the graph will fall (down, down).

Front

What is the end behavior of a polynomial with a negative leading coefficient and an odd degree?

Back

The left end of the graph will rise (up) and the right end will fall (down).

Front

How can you identify the degree of a polynomial?

Back

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

Front

What is a leading coefficient?

Back

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

Front

If a polynomial has a degree of 4 and a leading coefficient of -1, what is its end behavior?

Back

The end behavior will be down, down (both ends fall).

Front

What is the significance of the leading coefficient in determining end behavior?

Back

The sign of the leading coefficient indicates whether the ends of the graph will rise or fall.

Front

What does it mean for a polynomial to have an even degree?

Back

A polynomial has an even degree if the highest exponent of the variable is an even number.