9-9 Graphs of Polynomial Functions
Use the interactive below to further explore the graphs of polynomial function. The interactive displays a polynomial in the form y = ax4 + bx3 + cx2 + dx + 3 and allows you to adjust the values of a, b, c, d, and e with sliders. Note that if you set a = 0 you can create a third degree polynomial and if you set both a and b = 0 you cna create a second degree polynomial. Experiment with the sliders to explore some of the unique shapes that can be made by polynomial functions. Then see if you can create each of the following types of functions:
- A function with an even degree and a positive leading coefficient.
- A function with an even degree and a negative leading coefficient.
- A function with an odd degree and a positive leading coeffficient.
- A function with an odd degree and a negative leading coefficient.