Question

1. 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 your answer. :/

Answer 1

It helps to know what the words mean:
Intercept: where the curve/line crosses the x- or the y-axis.
"crosses the x-axis" = x-intercept

Read more about it at:
http://www.purplemath.com/modules/intrcept.htm

Answer 2

o.o

Answer 3

I see.

Answer 4

I'm still confused though

Answer 5

Reread:
"It helps to know what the words mean:
Intercept: where the curve/line crosses the x- or the y-axis.
"crosses the x-axis" = x-intercept"



The above drawing shows a third degree curve.
Count the number of intercepts, and the number of times it crosses the x-axis.

Answer 6

Hmm 3?

Answer 7

@mathmate

Answer 8

There should be two answers to:
"Count the number of intercepts, and the number of times it crosses the x-axis",
or
1. Count the number of intercepts, and
2. Count the number of times it crosses the x-axis.

Answer 9

4 Intercepts it crosses the x-axis 3 times right?

Answer 10

@mathmate

Answer 11

Correct, so reread the question and then explain to the best of your capacity.

Answer 12

Ok ok xD hmm so it is possible because intercepts and crossing the x axis are two different things?

Answer 13

@mathmate