The Polynomials Assignment
The Polynomials Assignment
Name:________________
READ your textbook pages 129-130, Examples 2 and 3(Factoring using the Integral Zero Theorem and Factoring Higher Degree Polynomials) to help with the question.
1. Consider a polynomial ( ) . (a) Fully factor (algebraically) by stating the potential zeros, using sythetic (or long) division.
(b) Go to www.wolframalpha.com and input the given equation for ( ). (Use shift 6 to make exponent sign (^). How does your factored form compare your factored form to whats given there?
(c) Sketch the graph of ( ) below. Carefully label, showing x-intercepts, the y-intercept, and approximate coordinates of any local max/mins. (Turning points in the graph use the max/min function
on your graphing calculator to help with this. Round to the nearest hundredth)
This graph has TWO turning points! (max / mins)
(c) Explain how the factored form of the equation for (), developed in (a), can be used to help construct the graph.
READ your textbook page 109, plus page 140 example 2(a) to help with this question. You might want to also read textbook section 3.4 dont worry well discuss the concept of multiplicity in class!
(b) The minimum degree of a polynomial is one more than the number of turning points State the minimum degree of ()
Note: In this case the minimum degree of () is in fact its degree
( )( ) Where (d) ( ) has an equation in the form ( ) are the zeros, and a is some constant representing the lead coefficient. State the equation of ( ). (For now just leave an a in your
equation, well solve for it next step!)
(e) The
of ( ) is
(f) Go to www.wolframalpha.com and enter the equation you devloped in (e). Do you get a matching graph? Go down to were it lists alternate forms, and state the fully expanded form ( )
3. For this question, the goal is for you to draw a connection between the number of turning points (local max/ mins) and the minimum degree of the polynomial.
() () ( )( )( )( )
a)
f)
()
b)
Degree:______ # of Turn Points: ______
g)
()
()
c)
()
d)
Conclusions:
How is the DEGREE of a polynomial usually related to the number of turning points (also known as local max/mins)?
()
) (
)(
Use www.wolframalpha.com to look up the factored form of the function for part (g). (State here) Does the factored form relate as expected to the graph?