Algebra 2 Companion Book, Volume 2

6.2.3 Investigating Graphs of Polynomial Functions (continued) Example 3 Graphing Polynomial Functions Use factoring, solving polynomial equations, and the Rational Root Theorem to graph a polynomial function.

Example 4 Determine Maxima and Minima with a Calculator

A turning point is where a graph changes from increasing to decreasing or from decreasing to increasing. A turning point corresponds to a local maximum or minimum. A graphing calculator can be used to graph and estimate maximum and minimum values. A polynomial of degree n has at most n − 1 turning points and at most n x -intercepts. If the function has n distinct roots, then it has exactly n − 1 turning points and exactly n x -intercepts.

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