Question

I have to construct a 2nd degree polynomial. The problem says, "construct a 2nd degree polynomial that has zeros of -2 and 7, and pass through the point (3,5). Now, I know how to construct the actual graph. The thing I'm confused on is what "that has zeros of -2 and 7" mean?? Can anyone shed light on what that statement means?

Answer 1

"zeros of -2 and 7" means that the graph crosses the x axis at those points. Another way to look at is is that those are the values that make y=0

Answer 2

so like, (-2,0) and (7,0)?

Answer 3

Right

Answer 4

awesome, thank you go much!

Answer 5

how do I know whether the coefficient is positive or negative? that will affect which direction I draw my graph.

Answer 6

I don't remember how to do that part (I can try to look it up if you'd like), but I think your graph will be concave down. It has to pass through (3,5), right? I don't think it could if it were concave up.

Answer 7

yeah, it will concave down definitely. I just want to make sure that was right though. !

Answer 8

My professor talked a lot about positive/negative coefficient and which direction the graph would go, so I was paranoid!

Answer 9

:) good luck

Answer 10

thanks so much!