Short Answer
The function has a positive leading coefficient and an odd degree, resulting in negative values as x approaches negative infinity. It crosses the x-axis at roots -6 and -2, becoming positive after -6 and returning to negative after -2, while touching the x-axis at root 0 without crossing it, remaining negative until it reaches positive values beyond 4.
Step 1: Analyze the Leading Coefficient and Degree
The leading coefficient of the function is positive and the highest degree is odd (specifically 9). This indicates the overall end behavior of the function; as x approaches negative infinity (-‚Äöau), the function will yield negative values. Therefore, in the interval (-‚Äöau, -6), the function is negative.
Step 2: Identify Roots and Their Effects
We have identified critical roots at -6 and -2, both of which have odd multiplicity, indicating that the function will cross the x-axis at these points. After crossing -6, the function becomes positive. It crosses again at -2, returning to negative values.
Step 3: Examine Even Multiplicity at Root Zero
At the root 0, the function exhibits even multiplicity, meaning it touches the x-axis but does not cross it. Therefore, the function remains negative in the interval between -2 and 4, where it then crosses into the positive values. Based on this analysis, only the first choice correctly describes the behavior of the function.