End Behavior

Key Questions

  • Answer:

    o understand the behaviour of a polynomial graphically all one one needs is the degree (order) and leading coefficient. This two components predict what polynomial does graphically as gets larger or smaller indefinitely. This called "end behavior". For example it easy to predict what a polynomial with even degree and +ve leading coefficient will do. All even polynomial have both ends of the graph moving in the same direction with direction dictated by the sign of leading coefficient. On the other hand odd power will get have the polynomial end points moving in opposite direction, with the leading coefficient dictating the direction.

    Explanation:

    To understand the behaviour of a polynomial graphically all one one needs is the degree (order) and leading coefficient. This two components predict what polynomial does graphically as gets larger or smaller indefinitely. This called "end behavior". For example it easy to predict what a polynomial with even degree and +ve leading coefficient will do. All even polynomial have both ends of the graph moving in the same direction with direction dictated by the sign of leading coefficient. On the other hand odd power will get have the polynomial end points moving in opposite direction, with the leading coefficient dictating the direction.

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