Polynomial Unit Review

Front

What is the definition of a polynomial?

Back

A polynomial is a mathematical expression consisting of variables (also called indeterminates) raised to non-negative integer powers and coefficients, 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 is the multiplicity of a zero in a polynomial?

Back

The multiplicity of a zero is the number of times that zero is a root of the polynomial, which corresponds to the power of the factor associated with that zero.

Front

Classify the polynomial 2x^4 - 3x^2 + 5 by degree.

Back

Degree: 4 (quartic polynomial)

Front

Classify the polynomial 7x - 2 by number of terms.

Back

Type: Binomial (two terms)

Front

What is a monomial? Give an example.

Back

A monomial is a polynomial with only one term. Example: 5x^3.

Front

What is a binomial? Give an example.

Back

A binomial is a polynomial with exactly two terms. Example: 3x^2 - 4.

Front

What is a trinomial? Give an example.

Back

A trinomial is a polynomial with exactly three terms. Example: x^2 + 5x + 6.

Front

How do you find the zeros of a polynomial?

Back

To find the zeros of a polynomial, set the polynomial equal to zero and solve for the variable.

Front

What is the factor theorem?

Back

The factor theorem states that if a polynomial f(x) has a zero at x = a, then (x - a) is a factor of f(x).