Math Problem Statement

The important features of four functions are shown in their graphs. A fifth-degree polynomial has exactly two complex roots. Which could be the graph of the function described?

Solution

For a fifth-degree polynomial with exactly two complex roots, we need to consider a few key properties of its graph:

Key considerations:

  1. Degree of the polynomial:

    • A fifth-degree polynomial will have up to 5 roots (real and/or complex).
    • Since there are exactly two complex roots, there must be three real roots because complex roots always come in conjugate pairs.
  2. Behavior at infinity:

    • Since the polynomial is of odd degree (fifth degree), the ends of the graph will have opposite behaviors: as xx \to -\infty, f(x)f(x) \to -\infty and as xx \to \infty, f(x)f(x) \to \infty (or vice versa, depending on the leading coefficient).
  3. Turning points and inflection points:

    • A fifth-degree polynomial will have up to four turning points.
    • A fifth-degree polynomial may have up to three distinct real roots with possible local maxima and minima between them.

How to identify the correct graph:

  • Look for a graph with three x-intercepts, which correspond to the three real roots.
  • The graph should show one end going to infinity and the other going to negative infinity, confirming the odd-degree behavior.
  • The graph should exhibit turning points (local maxima or minima) between the real roots, but not more than four turning points.

Would you like further details or have any specific questions?

Here are 5 related questions for further exploration:

  1. How do complex roots affect the graph of a polynomial?
  2. Can a fifth-degree polynomial have more than two complex roots?
  3. What is the significance of the number of turning points in relation to the degree of a polynomial?
  4. How can we determine the leading coefficient from the graph of a polynomial?
  5. How would the graph change if there were fewer real roots?

Tip: Always count the number of real roots (x-intercepts) and turning points to help deduce the degree and nature of the polynomial.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Polynomials
Roots of Equations
Graph Behavior

Formulas

n/a (No specific formula, but focuses on root behavior and graph analysis)

Theorems

Fundamental Theorem of Algebra

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12