Which graph represents the polynomial function…

Mathematics Questions

Which graph represents the polynomial function f(x) = x¬≥ + 4x¬≤ – 4x – 16?

Short Answer

The polynomial function f(x) = x¬≥ + 4x¬≤ – 4x – 16 can be factored as (x – 2)(x + 2)(x + 4), resulting in roots at x = -2, -4, and 2. These roots indicate the points of intersection with the x-axis, helping identify the correct graph for the function.

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Analyze the Polynomial

We have the polynomial function, f(x) = x¬≥ + 4x¬≤ – 4x – 16. To identify the correct graph for this function, we need to first understand its structure and behavior. Specifically, we will focus on finding its roots, which will indicate where the function intersects the x-axis.

Step 2: Factor the Polynomial

To find the roots of the polynomial, we will factor it. The factorization process goes as follows:

  • First rewritten as: f(x) = x¬≤(x + 4) – 4(x + 4)
  • This simplifies to: (x¬≤ – 4)(x + 4)
  • Further factor to: (x – 2)(x + 2)(x + 4)

Now we can set f(x) = 0 to find the roots.

Step 3: Identify the Roots and the Correct Graph

The computed roots from the factored form are x = -2, x = -4, and x = 2. These roots indicate the points where the curve intersects the x-axis, specifically at:

  • (-2, 0)
  • (-4, 0)
  • (2, 0)

Based on these intersections, we can determine that the correct graph for this polynomial function is the one shown in the bottom left of the provided options.

Related Concepts

Polynomial

Function that can be expressed in the form of ax^n + bx^(n-1) + … + k, where a, b, …, k are constants and n is a non-negative integer

Roots

The values of x for which the polynomial equals zero, indicating where the graph intersects the x-axis

Factoring

The process of breaking down a polynomial into simpler components (factors) that can be multiplied together to yield the original polynomial.

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