Math Problem Statement

Which of the following polynomials could define the graph shown?

Solution

The images you uploaded show a polynomial graph p(x)p(x) and a multiple-choice question asking to identify the correct polynomial expression based on the graph.

Analysis of the Graph:

The graph is a polynomial with the following key features:

  1. Degree: The graph has 3 turning points, indicating that the polynomial is at least of degree 4.
  2. Behavior at Extremes: The graph goes to ++\infty as xx approaches -\infty, and also to ++\infty as xx approaches ++\infty. This indicates that the leading term has an even degree with a positive coefficient.
  3. Roots: The graph crosses the x-axis at three points, indicating three real roots. The exact roots appear to be around x=3,0,2x = -3, 0, 2.

Provided Options:

The provided options are:

  • p(x)=x39x+1p(x) = x^3 - 9x + 1
  • p(x)=2x4x3p(x) = 2x^4 - x^3
  • p(x)=x45x2+4p(x) = x^4 - 5x^2 + 4 (Selected in the image)
  • p(x)=5x44x39p(x) = 5x^4 - 4x^3 - 9

Matching the Graph with the Correct Polynomial:

  • p(x)=x45x2+4p(x) = x^4 - 5x^2 + 4 seems to be the correct choice:
    • It is a quartic polynomial (degree 4), matching the number of turning points and the end behavior.
    • The roots at x3,0,2x \approx -3, 0, 2 match the graph.

Thus, the selected answer p(x)=x45x2+4p(x) = x^4 - 5x^2 + 4 appears to be correct.

Would you like further details on the analysis or have any other questions?

Here are some related questions for further exploration:

  1. What are the steps to determine the degree of a polynomial from its graph?
  2. How do turning points relate to the degree of a polynomial?
  3. What is the significance of the leading coefficient in a polynomial function?
  4. How can you determine the roots of a polynomial function by examining its graph?
  5. What are the different types of polynomial roots, and how do they appear on a graph?

Tip: To determine the degree of a polynomial from its graph, count the number of turning points and remember that a polynomial of degree nn can have at most n1n-1 turning points.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Polynomial Functions
Graph Analysis
Roots of Polynomials
Degree of a Polynomial

Formulas

General form of polynomial equations: ax^n + bx^(n-1) + ... + z
End behavior of polynomials with even and odd degrees

Theorems

Fundamental Theorem of Algebra
Relationship between the degree of a polynomial and the number of turning points

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12