Esmeralda and Heinz are working to graph a polynomial function, f(x). Esmeralda says that the third-degree polynomial has four intercepts. Heinz argues that the function only crosses the x-axis three times. Is there a way for them both to be correct? Explain.

Question

jonnyvonny · Answer

Such an offensive name; I advise you to change your name for the sole sake of offending others. Saddest part; I doubt you know what that term means.

anonymous · Answer

Excuse me? Do you even have the slightest understanding of the backstory/meaning of my name @JonnyVonny ? It is nothing offensive to anyone whatsoever, and it upsets me that you would say that.

jonnyvonny · Answer

But I believe the answer is only 3 possible intercepts; imagine y=x^3. Regardless of how you modify it, it would only yield 3 roots.

jonnyvonny · Answer

Here, lets converse this with pm's rather than letting the public know on the dispute; it attracts attention, and of which, I apologize for initiating that road.

reemii · Answer

A 3rd degree polynomial can have 3 roots at most, maybe "Esmeralda" is also considering the y-intercept as "an intercept".