Roots and Graphs – Put all answers in your notes!

We know that the roots of a polynomial are also the x-intercepts. Today, you are going to discover how
they affect the behavior of the graphs…

Each person in the group should choose one of the following functions:

a) y = 0.05(x – 1)(x + 1)2(x – 4)3(x + 4)4

b) y = (x + 5)(x – 3)2(x – 2)3(x + 1)4
c) y = (x – 3)2x4(x + 1)5
d) y = 0.05(x – 1)5(x + 1)6(x – 4)7(x + 4)8

Using your function, perform the following experiment:

1) What are the roots for your function?

2) Enter this function into your calculator.
3) Zoom in several times to examine one of the roots (NOTE: Your root may not look like a root in a
normal viewing window, but keep zooming in and it will appear.)
a. Does the graph pass through the axis or only touch it at that root?
b. Does the graph appear to flatten out at that root? (You may need to zoom in more to
see it)
c. What is the exponent for the factor identifying this root?
d. What does that exponent indicate about this factor?
4) Repeat step 3 for every root.

Now compare your results with your group. In your notes, list everything your group can conclude from
this experiment. If your group disagrees on something, create your own polynomial and repeat the
experiment to come to an agreement. When you think you have a complete list, call me over to check.

HW: Identify the degree of each function. Then use the leading coefficient test and what you’ve
discovered today to sketch the graphs without a calculator. (You may check your answers with the
calculator. Just realize that you are trying to get the end behavior and zero’s behaviors correct – it’s ok if
the calculator has something thinner or wider than what you have.)

a) y = x(x – 3)2
b) y = -x3(x – 2)
c) y = (x – 1)3(x + 2)5
d) y = (x – 3)2(x + 5)4