graphing polynomials

Front

What are the zeros of a polynomial?

Back

The zeros of a polynomial are the values of x for which the polynomial equals zero. They are also known as the roots of the polynomial.

Front

How do you identify the leading coefficient of a polynomial?

Back

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

Front

What does it mean for a polynomial to be increasing over an interval?

Back

A polynomial is increasing over an interval if, as x increases, the value of the polynomial also increases.

Front

What is the y-intercept of a polynomial function?

Back

The y-intercept is the point where the graph of the polynomial crosses the y-axis, which occurs when x=0.

Front

How do you find the roots of a polynomial function?

Back

To find the roots, set the polynomial equal to zero and solve for x.

Front

What is the significance of the degree of a polynomial?

Back

The degree of a polynomial indicates the highest power of x in the polynomial and determines the polynomial's end behavior.

Front

What does a negative leading coefficient indicate about the graph of a polynomial?

Back

A negative leading coefficient indicates that the graph of the polynomial will fall to the right as x approaches positive infinity.

Front

What is the difference between a polynomial and a quadratic function?

Back

A polynomial is a function that can have multiple degrees, while a quadratic function specifically has a degree of 2.

Front

How can you determine if a polynomial is even or odd?

Back

A polynomial is even if all the exponents of x are even, and it is odd if all the exponents are odd.

Front

What is the role of the constant term in a polynomial?

Back

The constant term is the value of the polynomial when x=0, and it affects the y-intercept of the graph.