Math Problem Statement

A general equation for the polynomial function g(x) = a(x - h)^4 + k is given. Use the graph to determine the equation for the function.

Solution

Let's analyze the problem shown in the image.

The general equation for the polynomial function is given as: g(x)=a(xh)4+kg(x) = a(x - h)^4 + k where hh and kk are the coordinates of the vertex of the function.

Step 1: Identify the vertex (h,k)(h, k)

Looking at the graph, the vertex appears to be at the point (0,0)(0, 0), meaning h=0h = 0 and k=0k = 0.

Step 2: Determine the value of aa

To find aa, we can substitute another point on the graph into the equation and solve for aa. From the graph, we can see that the point (1,5)(-1, 5) is on the curve. Substituting (1,5)(-1, 5) into the equation: g(x)=a(xh)4+kg(x) = a(x - h)^4 + k Substituting x=1x = -1, g(x)=5g(x) = 5, h=0h = 0, and k=0k = 0: 5=a(10)4+05 = a(-1 - 0)^4 + 0 5=a(1)45 = a(1)^4 5=a5 = a So, a=5a = 5.

Final Equation:

Now we have all the parameters: a=5a = 5, h=0h = 0, and k=0k = 0. Thus, the equation of the function is: g(x)=5(x0)4+0g(x) = 5(x - 0)^4 + 0 Simplifying, we get: g(x)=5x4g(x) = 5x^4

This is the equation of the graphed function.


Would you like more details or have any further questions?

Here are 5 related questions you could explore:

  1. How do different values of aa affect the shape of the graph for a quartic function?
  2. What happens to the graph if hh and kk are non-zero?
  3. Can you find the roots of g(x)=5x4g(x) = 5x^4?
  4. How does the degree of a polynomial affect the number of turning points in its graph?
  5. What is the general behavior of even-powered polynomials compared to odd-powered ones?

Tip: Always use points clearly visible on the graph to calculate constants like aa, hh, and kk when matching an equation to a graph.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Polynomial Functions
Graphing
Quartic Functions

Formulas

g(x) = a(x - h)^4 + k

Theorems

Vertex Form of a Polynomial
Solving for a in Polynomial Functions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12