Analyzing Graphs of Polynomial Functions

What is a zero in the context of polynomial functions?

• An x-value where the graph is undefined

• A point where the graph reaches its maximum

• An x-value where f(x) equals zero

• A point where the graph touches the y-axis

Which of the following is another name for a zero?

• Intercept

• Solution

• Vertex

• Factor

In the first practice problem, what is the degree of the polynomial 0.25(x + 2)(x - 1)^2?

• 5

• 4

• 3

• 2

What does a double zero indicate about the graph at that point?

• The graph has a horizontal asymptote

• The graph has a vertical asymptote

• The graph touches the x-axis and bounces back

• The graph crosses the x-axis

In the second practice problem, what shape does the graph of a degree 2 polynomial take?

• Circle

• Line

• Cubic curve

• Parabola

How do you find the vertex of a quadratic polynomial?

• Using the formula -b/2a

• By finding the midpoint of the zeros

• By setting the derivative to zero

• By finding the maximum y-value

Why are imaginary zeros not graphed on the real plane?

• They do not exist on the real axis

• They are always negative

• They are always positive

• They are undefined

What is a local maximum?

• The highest point on the entire graph

• The lowest point on the entire graph

• The lowest point within a specific range

• The highest point within a specific range

How many turning points can a polynomial of degree n have at most?

• n - 1

• n + 1

• n

• n - 2

If a fourth-degree polynomial has two real zeros, how many turning points can it have at most?

• 2

• 4

• 1

• 3