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A review of polynomial functions

A rational function is a function that can be expressed in the form , where is a polynomial and is a non-zero polynomial. A polynomial function is a function of the form where each of the s are real numbers and is a non-negative integer. Before we talk too much about rational functions, it's important that you're first comfortable with polynomial functions.

Enter an example of a polynomial function below.

Let's make sure you understand the notation above. Suppose is a polynomial. Which of the following symbols represents 's leading coefficient?

Select all that apply
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Check my answer (3)

If is a polynomial, which of the following symbols represents 's degree?

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  • D
Check my answer (3)

If is a polynomial, which of the following symbols represents 's -intercept?

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  • B
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Check my answer (3)

If is a polynomial, what is the maximum number of real zeros can have?

Give an example of such a polynomial below.

If is a polynomial, what is the minimum number of real zeros can have?

Give an example of such a polynomial below.

If you're asked to find the real zeros of a given polynomial , what would you do?

Plot a polynomial below with zeros at 0, 1, and 3.