Question 107150
the problems is to write the equation of a polynomial function with the given characteristics.  Use a leading coefficient of 1 or -1 and make the degree as small as possible.  Crosses the x- axis at -4, 0 and 1; lies above the x axis between -4 and 0; lies below the x - axis between o and 1.  
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1st: f(x) = x(x+4)(x-1) or 
2nd: f(x) = -x(x+4)(x-1)

Check to see which one has f(-2) > 0 , that is " above the x-axis".

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1st equation:
f(-2)= -2(2)(-3)= 12 > 0 
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2nd equation:
f(-2) =-[-2(2)(-3)] = -12 < 0 
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1st equation is the one you want
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Cheers,
Stan H.