Polynomials/Radicals FLASHCARD YL

Front

What is a polynomial?

Back

A polynomial is a mathematical expression consisting of variables (also called indeterminates) raised to non-negative integer powers and coefficients. For example, 2x^2 + 3x - 5 is a polynomial.

Front

What is the degree of a polynomial?

Back

The degree of a polynomial is the highest power of the variable in the polynomial. For example, in the polynomial 4x^3 + 2x^2 - x, the degree is 3.

Front

What is a constant in a polynomial?

Back

A constant is a term in a polynomial that does not contain any variables. For example, in the polynomial 3x^2 - 4x + 5, the constant is 5.

Front

What is a binomial?

Back

A binomial is a polynomial that contains exactly two terms. For example, 3x + 4 is a binomial.

Front

What is a trinomial?

Back

A trinomial is a polynomial that contains exactly three terms. For example, x^2 + 5x + 6 is a trinomial.

Front

How do you subtract polynomials?

Back

To subtract polynomials, distribute the negative sign to the second polynomial and then combine like terms. For example, (a^3 - 2a^2) - (-4a^3 + 4a^2) = a^3 - 2a^2 + 4a^3 - 4a^2 = 5a^3 - 6a^2.

Front

How do you add polynomials?

Back

To add polynomials, combine like terms. For example, (x^3 - 2x^2 + 3) + (2x^3 + 3x^2 - 1) = 3x^3 + x^2 + 2.

Front

What is a radical?

Back

A radical is an expression that includes a root, such as a square root or cube root. For example, √4 is a radical.

Front

How do you simplify radicals?

Back

To simplify radicals, factor the number under the radical into its prime factors and look for pairs. For example, √40 = √(4*10) = 2√10.

Front

What is the process of combining like terms?

Back

Combining like terms involves adding or subtracting coefficients of terms that have the same variable raised to the same power. For example, in 3x + 4x, you combine to get 7x.