Math Problem Statement

Find the equation

Find the equation of the polynomial represented by the graph.

Solution

The graph you've provided represents the function g(x)g(x), which appears to be a polynomial function based on its curvature and behavior. Let's break down the key features of this graph:

Observations:

  1. Roots (x-intercepts): The graph crosses the x-axis at approximately x=2x = -2, x=3x = 3, and x=5x = 5.
  2. Turning points:
    • The function reaches a maximum point near x=0x = 0 with a value slightly above y=1y = 1.
    • There is a local minimum near x=4x = 4, where yy is close to 2-2.
  3. End behavior:
    • As xx \to -\infty, g(x)g(x) \to -\infty (as seen from the arrow on the left).
    • As x+x \to +\infty, g(x)+g(x) \to +\infty (as seen from the rising part of the curve on the right).

Based on this information, the general shape suggests that g(x)g(x) is likely a cubic polynomial. The roots suggest that the function could be factored as:

g(x)=a(x+2)(x3)(x5)g(x) = a(x + 2)(x - 3)(x - 5)

Where aa is a constant that controls the stretch and direction of the graph.

Next Step: Find aa

To find aa, we can use the information from one of the turning points or y-intercepts. For example, the graph shows that g(x)g(x) has a y-intercept around (0,1)(0, 1).

Substitute x=0x = 0 and g(0)=1g(0) = 1 into the equation to find aa:

g(0)=a(0+2)(03)(05)=1g(0) = a(0 + 2)(0 - 3)(0 - 5) = 1 a(2)(3)(5)=1a(2)(-3)(-5) = 1 a(30)=1a(30) = 1 a=130a = \frac{1}{30}

Final Equation:

Thus, the equation for g(x)g(x) is approximately:

g(x)=130(x+2)(x3)(x5)g(x) = \frac{1}{30}(x + 2)(x - 3)(x - 5)

Would you like a more detailed explanation or any specific clarifications?


Here are 5 related questions to expand on this topic:

  1. How do we determine the degree of a polynomial based on its graph?
  2. What is the significance of turning points in polynomial functions?
  3. How do you find the exact roots of a polynomial from a graph?
  4. What is the role of the leading coefficient in determining the end behavior of a polynomial?
  5. How can we verify if the equation fits the graph perfectly using technology or further algebra?

Tip:

To better understand polynomial functions, focus on how the multiplicity of roots affects the shape of the graph near those roots.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Polynomials
Graphing Polynomial Functions

Formulas

Factored form of a polynomial: f(x) = a(x - r1)(x - r2)...(x - rn)
Using points on the graph to find the constant a

Theorems

Factor Theorem
Root Theorem
End Behavior of Polynomials

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12