Turning point — Algebra II, what it means and where it is taught
Where the graph changes from rising to falling or back. At most n - 1 of them.
Taught in Algebra II.
Where it is taught
What uses it later
This idea is needed for:
- Vertex — A turning point of the curve, on its axis.
Practise this idea
2 questions in the course bank use Turning point, in Polynomial Functions & Their Graphs.
Problem 1
What is the greatest number of turning points a degree 6 polynomial can have?
Worked answer
5
At most n-1 = 5
Problem 2
A graph has 5 turning points. What is the smallest degree it could be?
Worked answer
6
n-1 ≥ 5
So n ≥ 6