Question

(Algebra II) Which equation is best represented by the graph above?

A). y = (x + 3)(x + 1)(x – 1)
B). y = (x – 3)(x + 1)(x – 1)
C). y = –(x – 3)(x + 1)(x – 1)
D). y = (3 – x)(x + 1)(x – 1)
E). y = –(x – 3)(x + 1)(x + 1)

Answer 1

B). y = (x -3)(x +1)(x -1)

Explanation:

The zeros of the function are -1, 1, and 3, so the factors are (x +1), (x -1), and (x -3).

Selection B is the only choice that has these three factors.

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Comment on zeros and factors

When x = a is a zero of a polynomial function, (x -a) is a factor.