Polynomial functions and their roots

  • Curve fitter
    problem

    Curve fitter

    Age
    14 to 18
    Challenge level
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    This problem challenges you to find cubic equations which satisfy different conditions.

  • Interpolating polynomials
    problem

    Interpolating polynomials

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    Given a set of points (x,y) with distinct x values, find a polynomial that goes through all of them, then prove some results about the existence and uniqueness of these polynomials.
  • Patterns of inflection
    problem

    Patterns of inflection

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    Find the relationship between the locations of points of inflection, maxima and minima of functions.
  • Symmetrically So
    problem

    Symmetrically so

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    Exploit the symmetry and turn this quartic into a quadratic.
  • Agile Algebra
    problem

    Agile algebra

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    Observe symmetries and engage the power of substitution to solve complicated equations.

  • Spinners
    problem

    Spinners

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    How do scores on dice and factors of polynomials relate to each other?
  • Fibonacci Fashion
    problem

    Fibonacci fashion

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    What have Fibonacci numbers to do with solutions of the quadratic equation x^2 - x - 1 = 0 ?
  • Poly Fibs
    problem

    Poly fibs

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    A sequence of polynomials starts 0, 1 and each poly is given by combining the two polys in the sequence just before it. Investigate and prove results about the roots of the polys.
  • Exploring cubic functions
    problem

    Exploring cubic functions

    Age
    14 to 18
    Challenge level
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    Quadratic graphs are very familiar, but what patterns can you explore with cubics?