Stanley analyzes the table of values for a polynomial function. He has determined through applying Descartes’ rule of sign that there is 1 negative real zero, and either 1 or 3 positive real zeros. He has also determined that the upper bound of the function is 3. X , f(x)
-2, -105
-1, 0
0, 5
1, -2
2, 3
3, -20
4, -175

a. What is the degree of the polynomial function? How can you tell?

b. How many positive real zeros does the function have? How can you tell?