Unit 7: Polynomial Functions Flashcard

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What is a polynomial function?

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A polynomial function is a mathematical expression involving a sum of powers in one or more variables multiplied by coefficients. The general form is: f(x) = a_n*x^n + a_(n-1)*x^(n-1) + ... + a_1*x + a_0, where n is a non-negative integer.

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How do you write a polynomial in standard form?

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What is the degree of a polynomial?

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What is the difference of two squares?

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How do you factor a polynomial completely?

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To factor a polynomial completely, identify common factors, apply special factoring techniques (like difference of squares), and break down the polynomial into irreducible factors.

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What is the box method for factoring?

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The box method is a visual way to factor polynomials by creating a box to organize terms and find common factors. It is especially useful for factoring trinomials.

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What is a perfect square trinomial?

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What is the leading coefficient of a polynomial?

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What does it mean for a polynomial to be in factored form?

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How do you determine if a polynomial is in standard form?

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A polynomial is in standard form if its terms are ordered from the highest degree to the lowest degree, and there are no like terms left to combine.