2.

2: Polynomial Functions of Higher Degree

Definition of a Polynomial Function:
Let n be a nonnegative integer and let an ,an1 ,,a2 ,a1 ,a0 be real numbers with an 0 .
The function an x n + an1 x n1 + + a2 x 2 + a1 x + a0 is called a polynomial function of x with
degree n.

Ex. 1) Graphically, polynomial functions are smooth, continuous curves. Which of the
following graphs represent polynomials?

Ex. 2) Sketch = ! and = ! on the same axis below

Ex. 3) Sketch = ! and = ! on the same axis below

Lead Coefficient Test
Based on your warm-up activity, we will fill in the following table as a group:

Degree
(even or odd)

Lead Coefficient
(positive or negative)

End Behavior

Positive

Even

Negative

Positive
Odd

Negative

Ex. 3) Sketch = 3

y
6

1
x
7

Ex. 3) Discuss the end behavior for the following graphs:

Ex. 4) Discuss the end behavior for each of the following polynomials:
a) = 3 ! 4 ! + 2


!

b) = 4 ! 3 ! !


c) = 3 ! 4 ! + 2


d) = 3 !! + 37



Ex. 4) Find all real zeros of

f (x) = 2x4 + 2x2.

Then state their multiplicities and what they tell you about each zero.