Final answer:
The transformation h(x) = -f(x) - 9 is a A)reflection in the x-axis followed by a vertical shift downward by 9 units.
Step-by-step explanation:
The transformation h(x) = -f(x) - 9 involves two main operations on the function f(x). First, there is a reflection across the x-axis due to the negative sign in front of f(x). This changes the sign of all the y-values of f(x), effectively flipping the graph over the x-axis. Second, subtracting 9 from the entire function results in a vertical shift downward by 9 units. This moves the entire graph straight down along the y-axis.
The correct description of the transformation is therefore: A. Reflection in the x-axis followed by a vertical shift downward by 9 units.