Looking at the graph, we are tasked with writing an equation for the polynomial function $y(x)$. Based on the visual information from the graph, we can infer several important characteristics of the polynomial:

Key Observations:

1. Degree of the Polynomial: The graph appears to have four turning points, which suggests the polynomial is of degree 5, as the degree of the polynomial is usually one more than the number of turning points.

2. Roots of the Polynomial: The graph crosses the x-axis at the following points:

   • $x = -3$
   • $x = -1$
   • $x = 2$

   These roots correspond to factors of the polynomial. Since the graph passes directly through these points, we assume these are simple roots (multiplicity 1).

3. Behavior of the Graph:

   • At $x = -3$ and $x = 2$, the graph passes straight through the x-axis.
   • At $x = -1$, there is a flattening, indicating a root of higher multiplicity (likely multiplicity 2 at this point).

4. End Behavior: Since the graph falls as $x \to -\infty$ and rises as $x \to +\infty$, the leading coefficient of the polynomial is negative.

General Equation:

Given these observations, we can propose the polynomial equation in factored form as follows:

$y(x) = a(x + 3)(x + 1)^2(x - 2)$

Determining $a$:

To find the value of $a$, we can use a known point from the graph, such as the y-intercept. The graph crosses the y-axis at approximately $(0, -6)$. Substituting $x = 0$ and $y(0) = -6$ into the equation:

$-6 = a(0 + 3)(0 + 1)^2(0 - 2)$ $-6 = a(3)(1)(-2)$ $-6 = -6a$ $a = 1$

Final Polynomial:

Thus, the equation of the polynomial is:

$y(x) = (x + 3)(x + 1)^2(x - 2)$

Would you like further details or clarifications on this solution?

Here are some related questions to deepen your understanding:

1. What is the significance of a root's multiplicity in polynomial graphs?
2. How does the degree of a polynomial relate to its graph's shape?
3. How can you determine the end behavior of a polynomial?
4. What does a turning point on a graph indicate about the polynomial at that point?
5. Why is it important to use known points, like intercepts, to solve for unknown coefficients in polynomials?

Tip: Always examine both the roots and behavior at those roots (e.g., crossing or touching the axis) when writing equations for polynomial graphs.