Math Problem Statement

find the degree, the leading term, the leading coefficient, the constant term and the end behavior of the given polynomial. f(x) = 4 − x − 3x

Solution

Let's first write down the polynomial function properly:

f(x)=4x3xf(x) = 4 - x - 3x

This expression can be simplified as follows:

f(x)=44xf(x) = 4 - 4x

Key elements of the polynomial:

  1. Degree: The degree of a polynomial is the highest power of the variable xx. In this case, the highest power of xx is 1 (since 4x-4x is 4x1-4x^1). Therefore, the degree is: Degree=1\text{Degree} = 1

  2. Leading Term: The leading term is the term with the highest power of xx. Here, the leading term is: Leading Term=4x\text{Leading Term} = -4x

  3. Leading Coefficient: The leading coefficient is the coefficient of the leading term. Here, the coefficient of 4x-4x is: Leading Coefficient=4\text{Leading Coefficient} = -4

  4. Constant Term: The constant term is the term that does not contain any variables. In this case, the constant term is: Constant Term=4\text{Constant Term} = 4

  5. End Behavior: The end behavior of a polynomial depends on the degree and the leading coefficient:

    • For a degree 1 polynomial with a negative leading coefficient, the graph will fall to the right and rise to the left.

    Hence, the end behavior is: As x,f(x)andas x,f(x)\text{As } x \to \infty, f(x) \to -\infty \quad \text{and} \quad \text{as } x \to -\infty, f(x) \to \infty

Summary:

  • Degree: 1
  • Leading Term: 4x-4x
  • Leading Coefficient: 4-4
  • Constant Term: 44
  • End Behavior: Falls to the right, rises to the left.

Would you like further details on any of these aspects?


Here are 5 related questions for further exploration:

  1. What is the effect of the leading coefficient on the end behavior of a polynomial?
  2. How would the degree change the shape of the graph in higher degree polynomials?
  3. How can you factor simple polynomials like f(x)=44xf(x) = 4 - 4x?
  4. What is the difference between even-degree and odd-degree polynomial end behaviors?
  5. How do transformations like shifting and stretching affect polynomial graphs?

Tip: Always check the highest degree and leading coefficient when determining the end behavior of a polynomial!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Polynomials

Formulas

End behavior of polynomial: determined by degree and leading coefficient
Degree of polynomial: highest power of x
Leading term and coefficient

Theorems

The end behavior of polynomials theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10