Final answer:
The function g(x) = x² - 5 represents a quadratic function. The graph of g(x) will be shifted downwards by 5 units.
Step-by-step explanation:
The function g(x) = x² - 5 represents a quadratic function, which is a type of polynomial function. To determine the translation that takes place for this function, we need to consider the constant term of the function, which is -5. In general, when a constant term is added/subtracted to the function, it causes a translation of the graph in the vertical direction. In this case, since the constant term is -5, the graph of g(x) will be shifted downwards by 5 units.