Question

Which polynomial function is graphed below?

Answer 1

Explanation:

We know that the graph passes through the point
`(1, 0)`, since the line crosses the X-axis at
`x = 1`, so that means our equation has
`(x - 1)` in it. The graph also passes through the point
`(-3, 0)`, so the equation also has
`(x + 3)` in it.

This narrows it down to options C and D.

When a graph "bounces" off the X-axis at a point, like it does at
`x = -3`, this is called a "double zero", meaning two factors of the equation equal zero. This means that the graph has
`(x + 3)^(2)`, leaving us with option D.