Polynomials Review

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^3 - 8x^2 + 3x - 7 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 2x^3 - 8x^2 + 3x - 7, the degree is 3.

Front

What is a constant term in a polynomial?

Back

The constant term in a polynomial is the term that does not contain any variables. For example, in the polynomial 2x^3 - 8x^2 + 3x - 7, the constant term is -7.

Front

How do you identify the number of terms in a polynomial?

Back

Count the number of distinct terms in the polynomial. For example, in 2x^3 - 8x^2 + 3x - 7, there are 4 terms.

Front

What is a monomial?

Back

A monomial is a polynomial with only one term. For example, 5x^2 is a monomial.

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What is a binomial?

Back

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

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What is a trinomial?

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A trinomial is a polynomial with exactly three terms. For example, x^2 + 2x + 1 is a trinomial.

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What is synthetic division?

Back

Synthetic division is a simplified method of dividing a polynomial by a linear divisor of the form (x - c). It is faster and requires less writing than long division.

Front

How do you add polynomials?

Back

To add polynomials, combine like terms. For example, (2x + 3) + (4x - 5) = 6x - 2.

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How do you subtract polynomials?

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To subtract polynomials, distribute the negative sign and then combine like terms. For example, (5x + 2) - (3x + 4) = 2x - 2.