Polynomial Function Types

Why This Matters

Polynomial functions are the backbone of Honors Algebra II—they're everywhere, from modeling projectile motion to analyzing profit curves. You're being tested on your ability to predict graph behavior without a calculator, which means understanding how degree, leading coefficient, and number of terms shape a polynomial's personality. The good news? Once you see the patterns, you can sketch any polynomial's general shape in seconds.

Don't just memorize that "quadratics make parabolas." Know why degree determines the maximum number of roots, how end behavior connects to even vs. odd degrees, and what the leading coefficient tells you about orientation. These concepts show up repeatedly in multiple choice, and FRQs love asking you to connect an equation to its graph. Master the underlying logic, and you'll handle any polynomial they throw at you.

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Classification by Degree

The degree of a polynomial—its highest exponent—determines the maximum number of roots, the possible number of turning points, and the overall shape of the graph. Higher degree means more complexity, more potential x-intercepts, and more direction changes.

Constant Functions

• Degree is 0—the simplest polynomial with no variable term, just a number
• Graph is a horizontal line at $y = c$, showing zero rate of change
• No x-intercepts unless $c = 0$, making these the baseline for understanding polynomial behavior

Linear Functions

• Degree is 1 with the form $f(x) = mx + b$, where $m$ is slope and $b$ is y-intercept
• Graphs are straight lines with exactly one x-intercept (unless horizontal)
• Constant rate of change—the slope $m$ tells you rise over run everywhere on the line

Quadratic Functions

• Degree is 2 with the form $f(x) = ax^2 + bx + c$, where $a \neq 0$
• Graphs are parabolas—opening up when $a > 0$, down when $a < 0$
• Maximum of 2 real roots and exactly 1 turning point (the vertex)

Cubic Functions

• Degree is 3 with the form $f(x) = ax^3 + bx^2 + cx + d$, where $a \neq 0$
• Up to 3 real roots and 0–2 turning points, creating that classic S-curve shape
• Opposite end behavior—one end rises to infinity while the other falls, guaranteed

Quartic Functions

• Degree is 4 with the form $f(x) = ax^4 + bx^3 + cx^2 + dx + e$, where $a \neq 0$
• Up to 4 real roots and 1–3 turning points, allowing for W or M shapes
• Same end behavior on both sides—both ends rise (if $a > 0$) or both fall (if $a < 0$)

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Classification by Number of Terms

Polynomials can also be named by how many terms they contain. This classification helps you identify structure quickly and anticipate factoring strategies.

Monomial Functions

• Single term in the form $f(x) = ax^n$, where $n$ is a non-negative integer
• Degree equals $n$—so $5x^3$ is a cubic monomial, $-2x$ is a linear monomial
• Graphs pass through the origin (unless $n = 0$), with shape determined entirely by the exponent

Binomial Functions

• Two terms in the form $f(x) = ax^m + bx^n$, like $x^2 - 4$ or $x^3 + 2x$
• Degree is the larger exponent—$3x^5 - x^2$ has degree 5
• Often factorable using difference of squares, GCF, or grouping techniques

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Classification by End Behavior

End behavior describes what happens to $f(x)$ as $x \to \infty$ and $x \to -\infty$. This is determined entirely by the degree and leading coefficient—ignore all other terms.

Even-Degree Polynomials

• Both ends point the same direction—up if leading coefficient is positive, down if negative
• Includes degrees 0, 2, 4, 6...—quadratics and quartics are the most common examples
• May have no real roots—the graph can "float" entirely above or below the x-axis

Odd-Degree Polynomials

• Ends point opposite directions—one toward $+\infty$, one toward $-\infty$
• Includes degrees 1, 3, 5...—linear and cubic functions are your go-to examples
• Always has at least one real root—the graph must cross the x-axis somewhere

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Special Cases

Zero Function

• Defined as $f(x) = 0$ for all $x$—every input gives output zero
• Graph is the x-axis itself—a horizontal line at $y = 0$
• Degree is undefined (or sometimes called "negative infinity")—this is the one exception to degree rules

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Quick Reference Table

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Self-Check Questions

1. A polynomial has ends that both point downward. What do you know for certain about its degree and leading coefficient?

2. Which two function types from this guide are guaranteed to have at least one real root, and why?

3. Compare and contrast a cubic function and a quartic function in terms of end behavior, maximum roots, and maximum turning points.

4. You're given the graph of a polynomial that passes through the origin and has no other x-intercepts. Could this be a binomial? Explain your reasoning.

5. (FRQ-style) A polynomial $f(x)$ has degree 4 and a negative leading coefficient. Sketch the general end behavior and explain why $f(x)$ might have 0, 2, or 4 real roots—but not 1 or 3.