Ardrey Kell High School Algebra Polynomial Function Question

1. The change in water level of a lake is modeled by a polynomial function, W(x). Describe how to find the x-intercepts of W(x) and how to construct a rough graph of W(x) so that the Parks Department can predict when there will be no change in the water level. You may create a sample polynomial of degree 3 or higher to use in your explanations. (10 points)

2. In your lab, a substance’s temperature has been observed to follow the function T(x) = (x + 5)3 + 7. The turning point of the graph is where the substance changes from a liquid to a solid. Using complete sentences in your written answer, explain to your fellow scientists how to find the turning point of this function. Hint: The turning point of the graph is similar to the vertex of a quadratic function. (10 points)

3.Two students in your class, Hunter and Maggie, are disputing a function. Hunter says that for the function, between x = −2 and x = 2, the average rate of change is 0. Maggie says that for the function, between x = −2 and x = 2, the graph goes up through a turning point, and then back down. Explain how Hunter and Maggie can both be correct, using complete sentences. (10 points)

4.You are having a meeting with the CEO of a technology company. You have interpreted the number of laptops produced versus profit as the function P(x) = x4 − 3×3 − 8×2 + 12x + 16. Describe to the CEO what the graph looks like and, in general, how to sketch the graph without using technology. Use complete sentences, and focus on the end behaviors of the graph and where the company will break even (where P(x) = 0). (10 points)