Polynomials

Front

What is a polynomial?

Back

A polynomial is a mathematical expression consisting of variables, coefficients, and non-negative integer exponents, combined using addition, subtraction, and multiplication.

Front

What is the degree of a polynomial?

Back

The degree of a polynomial is the highest power of the variable in the polynomial expression.

Front

What does the end behavior of a polynomial function describe?

Back

The end behavior of a polynomial function describes the behavior of the function as the input values approach positive or negative infinity.

Front

How do you determine the end behavior of a polynomial function?

Back

The end behavior can be determined by the leading term of the polynomial, specifically its degree and the sign of the leading coefficient.

Front

What is a relative maximum in a polynomial graph?

Back

A relative maximum is a point on the graph where the function value is higher than the values of the function at nearby points.

Front

What is a relative minimum in a polynomial graph?

Back

A relative minimum is a point on the graph where the function value is lower than the values of the function at nearby points.

Front

What does it mean for a polynomial graph to be increasing?

Back

A polynomial graph is increasing on an interval if the function values rise as the input values increase within that interval.

Front

What does it mean for a polynomial graph to be decreasing?

Back

A polynomial graph is decreasing on an interval if the function values fall as the input values increase within that interval.

Front

What is the significance of the x-intercepts of a polynomial function?

Back

The x-intercepts of a polynomial function are the points where the graph crosses the x-axis, indicating the values of x for which the function equals zero.

Front

What is the significance of the y-intercept of a polynomial function?

Back

The y-intercept of a polynomial function is the point where the graph crosses the y-axis, indicating the value of the function when x equals zero.