Question

Finding zeros of a polynomial function calculator assists in identifying the zeros or roots of a polynomial function by:

a) Evaluating the function at specific points.
b) Graphing the function and finding intersections.
c) Applying synthetic division on the function.
d) Deriving the function to find critical points.

Answer 1

Finding zeros of a polynomial function involves methods like evaluating at specific points, graphing, and synthetic division, not deriving the function. Visual tools like equation grapher and formulas for quadratics are common aids.

Step-by-step explanation:

Finding zeros of a polynomial function calculator can help in identifying the zeros or roots of a polynomial function by evaluating the function at specific points, graphing the function and finding intersections with the x-axis, and applying synthetic division. However, deriving the function to find critical points is not a method used for finding zeros; it is used for finding the maxima and minima of the function.

One way to identify the zeros is by using the equation grapher to visually determine where the function crosses the x-axis. Additionally, for quadratics in the form ax²+bx+c = 0, the quadratic formula helps calculate the roots. It is important to be familiar with using calculators for operations like square roots and higher, as these might be necessary to find exact solutions for polynomial equations.