Lesson 472 of 1524
Polynomial and Rational Functions
A polynomial function of degree two is called a quadratic function
Practice this chapterA polynomial function of degree two is called a quadratic function The axis of symmetry is the vertical line passing through the vertex.
The zeros, or x - intercepts, are the points at which the parabola crosses the x - axis. The y - intercept is the point at which the parabola crosses the y - axis
rational function — a function that can be written as the ratio of two polynomials. axis of symmetry — a vertical line drawn through the vertex of a parabola, that opens up or down, around which the parabola is symmetric; it is defined by x = - b 2 a. polynomial function — a function that consists of either zero or the sum of a finite number of non-zero terms, each of which is a product of a number, called the coefficient of the term, and a…. vertex — the point at which a parabola changes direction, corresponding to the minimum or maximum value of the quadratic function.
Be able to graph rational functions by finding the intercepts, behavior at the intercepts and asymptotes, and end behavior.
Worked example
What does “rational function” mean in Polynomial and Rational Functions?
- 1Use the wording this chapter gives for rational function.
- 2The book says: a function that can be written as the ratio of two polynomials.
- 3Do not use the meaning of axis of symmetry. That term means a vertical line drawn through the vertex of a parabola, that opens up or down, around which the parabola is symmetric; it is defined by x = - b 2 a.
Result: a function that can be written as the ratio of two polynomials
Why. That is the meaning this chapter gives for rational function.
Do not swap rational function and axis of symmetry. rational function means a function that can be written as the ratio of two polynomials. axis of symmetry means a vertical line drawn through the vertex of a parabola, that opens up or down, around which the parabola is symmetric; it is defined by x = - b 2 a.
Practice margin
This chapter
A fresh set from this chapter only. Choose 10 or 20. Multiple choice and fill-in, with no repeat inside the set.