Understanding Polynomials for Grade 11

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Polynomial

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An expression of more than two algebraic terms, especially the sum of several terms that contain different powers of the same variable(s).

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Degree of a Polynomial

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The highest power of the variable in the polynomial.

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Example: Quadratic Polynomial

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ax^2 + bx + c, where a ≠ 0

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Coefficient

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A numerical or constant quantity placed before and multiplying the variable in an algebraic expression.

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Monomial

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A polynomial with only one term.

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Example: Cubic Polynomial

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ax^3 + bx^2 + cx + d, where a ≠ 0

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Binomial

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A polynomial with exactly two terms.

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Leading Coefficient

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The coefficient of the term with the highest degree in a polynomial.

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Example: Polynomial Addition

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(3x^2 + 2x + 1) + (2x^2 + 3x + 4) = 5x^2 + 5x + 5

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Zero of a Polynomial

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A value of the variable that makes the polynomial equal to zero.