2nd Quarter: Lesson 2 November 11, 2022

MULTIPLICITY
The multiplicity of a root affects the shape of the graph of a
polynomial. Specifically,
 If a root of a polynomial has odd multiplicity, the graph will
cross the x-axis at the the root.
 If a root of a polynomial has even multiplicity, the graph will
touch the x-axis at the root but will not cross the x-axis.
 Every polynomial function of the nth degree cannot have more
than n roots (Fundamental Theorem of Algebra).

Graph y = (x + 2)2(x + 1)3(x – 1)4(x – 2)

Root or Zero Multiplicity Odd or Even Crosses or is
Tangent to
-2 2 Even Is tangent to

-1 3 Odd Crosses

1 4 Even Is tangent to

2 1 Odd Crosses

ADDITIONAL
INFO:
Cubic functions can have at most 3 real roots (including multiplicities) and
2 turning points. We will look at the graphs of cubic functions with
various combinations of roots and turning points
To sketch a graph:
- Determine the end behavior
- Find the x-intercept
- Find the y-intercept
- Plot the points and sketch the graph