SOLUTION: What polynomial has a graph that passes through the given points (-2, 2) (-1, -1) (1, 5) (3, 67)

Algebra ->  Polynomials-and-rational-expressions -> SOLUTION: What polynomial has a graph that passes through the given points (-2, 2) (-1, -1) (1, 5) (3, 67)       Log On


   



Question 623652: What polynomial has a graph that passes through the given points (-2, 2) (-1, -1) (1, 5) (3, 67)
Answer by solver91311(24713) About Me  (Show Source):
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Since you have 4 points, you need a 4-term, which is to say a 3rd degree, polynomial of the form:



Using the data in your first point:



which yields a four variable linear equation:



Using similar logic, write three more 4 variable linear equations using the data in the other three points yielding, in toto, a 4X4 system of equations.

Solve the 4X4 system by any convenient (relatively speaking that is) means. I used the MDETERM function in Excel and then apply Cramer's Rule. The ordered quadruple element of the solution set to the 4X4 (it is an independent and consistent system, by the way) consists of the 4 coefficients of your desired polynomial.

John

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