Polynomial Functions and Their Properties

Front

What is a polynomial function?

Back

A polynomial function is a mathematical expression involving a sum of powers in one or more variables multiplied by coefficients. The general form is: $$f(x) = a_nx^n + a_{n-1}x^{n-1} + ... + a_1x + a_0$$ where $$a_n$$ is the leading coefficient and $$n$$ is a non-negative integer.

Front

What is the leading coefficient of a polynomial?

Back

The leading coefficient of a polynomial is the coefficient of the term with the highest degree. It determines the end behavior of the polynomial function.

Front

How do you find the x-intercepts of a polynomial function?

Back

To find the x-intercepts of a polynomial function, set the function equal to zero and solve for x. The solutions are the x-intercepts.

Front

What does the end behavior of a polynomial function refer to?

Back

The end behavior of a polynomial function describes how the function behaves as x approaches positive or negative infinity. It is determined by the leading term.

Front

What is the standard form of a polynomial?

Back

The standard form of a polynomial is when the terms are arranged in descending order of their degree. For example, $$f(x) = 2x^3 - 4x^2 + 3$$ is in standard form.

Front

What is the degree of a polynomial?

Back

The degree of a polynomial is the highest power of the variable in the polynomial. It indicates the maximum number of x-intercepts and the end behavior.

Front

How do you determine the number of x-intercepts a polynomial can have?

Back

The maximum number of x-intercepts a polynomial can have is equal to its degree. However, some x-intercepts may be complex or repeated.

Front

What is a factored form of a polynomial?

Back

The factored form of a polynomial expresses it as a product of its linear factors. For example, $$f(x) = (x - 1)(x + 2)$$ is a factored form.

Front

What is the significance of the leading term in a polynomial?

Back

The leading term of a polynomial is the term with the highest degree. It influences the shape of the graph and the end behavior of the polynomial.

Front

What does it mean for a polynomial to be in factored form?

Back

A polynomial is in factored form when it is expressed as a product of its linear factors, which can help in finding roots and analyzing the function.