Precalculus (10th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32197-907-9
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-907-0

Chapter 4 - Polynomial and Rational Functions - 4.1 Polynomial Functions and Models - 4.1 Assess Your Understanding - Page 186: 78

Answer

$f(x)=-\frac{1}{4}(x+1)^2(x-1)(x-4)$

Work Step by Step

Step 1. Based on the given graph, we can identify the real zeros as $x=-1$ (multiplicity 2), $x=1$ (multiplicity 1), and $x=4$ (multiplicity 1). Step 2. We can write a general form of the polynomial as $f(x)=a(x+1)^2(x-1)(x-4)$ where $a$ is unknown. Step 3. Use the given point $(3,8)$ on the curve, we have $f(3)=a(3+1)^2(3-1)(3-4)=8$, thus $a=-\frac{1}{4}$ Step 4. Thus the function is $f(x)=-\frac{1}{4}(x+1)^2(x-1)(x-4)$
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.