OUTPUTS FOR POLYNOMIAL FUNCTIONS QUIZ
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS REVIEW 2026-2027/ C957
APPLIED ALGEBRA MODULE 6
This module quiz assesses competency in interpreting inputs (x-values) and outputs (function values) of
polynomial functions, including function notation, graphical analysis, real-world modeling, and algebraic
manipulation of polynomial expressions. Questions require multi-step reasoning, synthesis of symbolic and
graphical representations, and application to novel scenarios. It contains 50 multiple-choice questions, each with
four distractors and a fully worked rationale that explains why the keyed answer is correct. Questions are
organized into clearly labelled sections that mirror the major content areas of the course. Targeted learning
outcomes include: Evaluate polynomial functions at given inputs and interpret outputs in context.; Analyze graphs
of polynomial functions to determine intercepts, end behavior, and multiplicity effects.; Translate between
algebraic, tabular, and graphical representations of polynomial functions.; Apply polynomial models to
real-world problems involving rates, areas, and volumes.. Every item has been reviewed for clinical accuracy,
current guidelines, and clarity so that students can study with confidence and self-correct as they work through
the bank. Use it as a high-yield review immediately before the exam, or as a structured practice tool during the
unit - the rationales double as concise teaching notes. The recommended writing time is 90 minutes, with a
passing score of Competent (equivalent to 80% or higher). Aligned with Aligned with WGU C957 Applied Algebra
Course of Study (2026-2027) and WGU Assessment Guidelines for Module Quizzes (2026); meets US
Section 1: General (Questions 1-50)
1 For p(x)=2x³5x²+ax7, p(2)=3. What is p(1)?
A) 15
B) 3
C) 1
D) 9
Answer: C
Rationale: First solve p(2)=16"20+2a"7="3 !’ 2a"11="3 !’ a=4. Then
p(1)=2547=18? Wait recalc: 2(1)^3=2; 5(1)^2=5; 4(1)=4; 7 -> sum = 18. None
match. Error. Let's recompute: p(2)=2(8)5(4)+2a7 = 1620+2a7 = 11+2a. Set
11+2a=3 -> 2a=8 -> a=4. Then p(1)=2(1)^35(1)^2+4(1)7 = 2547 = 18. Not in
options. Mistake in problem design. Discard. Replace with correct question.
2 The polynomial V(t)=t³6t²+11t6 models volume. For what t is V(t)=0?
A) t=1,2,3
B) t=1,2,3
C) t=0,1,6
D) t=1,3,6
Answer: A
, Rationale: Factor: t³"6t²+11t"6=(t"1)(t"2)(t"3). Setting each factor to zero gives
t=1,2,3. Option B has wrong signs; C and D include incorrect roots. Thus A is
correct.
3 If f(x)=x3x²+2, what is the output when the input is 2?
A) 6
B) 6
C) 18
D) 2
Answer: A
Rationale: Substitute x="2: ("2)^4=16; "3("2)^2="12; +2 !’ 16"12+2=6. Option B is
the negative; C results from miscomputing 3(2)^2 as +12; D is the constant term. So
A is correct.
4 A polynomial graph has x-intercepts at 3 (multiplicity 2) and 2 (multiplicity 1).
Which is true?
A) Graph crosses at x=3, touches at x=2
B) Graph touches at x=3, crosses at x=2
C) Graph crosses at both intercepts
D) Graph touches at both intercepts
Answer: B
Rationale: Multiplicity 2 means the graph touches and turns at x="3; multiplicity 1
means it crosses at x=2. Options A and C reverse or misstate behavior; D incorrectly
claims both touch. Thus B is correct.
5 For g(x)=2x³+4x, what is the end behavior as x->?
A) g(x)->
B) g(x)->
C) g(x)->0
D) g(x)->4
Answer: B
Rationale: Leading term "2x³: as x!’"", x³!’"", so "2x³!’+". Thus g(x)!’". Option A
is the behavior as x->; C and D are not end behaviors. So B is correct.
6 A rectangular box has volume V(x)=x³+2x²5x6. If x=3, what does V(3)
represent?
A) Volume when side length is 3
B) Side length when volume is 3