Question

Use a calculator to determine if a given function is a polynomial.

A) Polynomial Check
B) Polynomial Tester
C) Function Analyzer
D) Polynomial Validator

Answer 1

To determine if a function is a polynomial using a graphing calculator, input the function and use the graphing feature to observe the curve. For polynomials, the graph should be smooth and continuous. Understanding the Equation Grapher is beneficial for visualizing how individual terms contribute to the polynomial curve.

Step-by-step explanation:

To determine if a given function is a polynomial, one can use features on graphing calculators such as the TI-83, 83+, or 84 models. The process involves the following steps:

• Enter the function into the calculator.
• Use the graphing feature to observe the shape of the curve.
• Analyze whether the graph represents a polynomial by checking for smooth, continuous lines and curves without breaks or asymptotes.

Understanding the Equation Grapher is also helpful. Learning about graphing polynomials shows how different constants can change the shape of a polynomial curve. By viewing the curves for the individual terms (e.g., y = bx), you can see how they combine to create the overall polynomial function.