Determine the degree and leading coefficient of a polynomial not in descending order

The video tutorial explains how to determine the degree and coefficient of a polynomial by focusing on the leading term. It emphasizes arranging monomials in descending order of power, clarifies the concept of X to the zero power, and highlights the importance of identifying the leading term. The degree is determined by the highest power, and the leading coefficient is the coefficient of the leading term.

What is the first step in determining the degree and coefficient of a polynomial?

• Start with the smallest power

• Ignore the leading term

• Arrange monomials by coefficient size

• Focus on the leading term

In the polynomial example, why is it incorrect to order terms by their coefficients?

• Because coefficients are always positive

• Because coefficients are always negative

• Because powers determine the order

• Because coefficients are irrelevant

What is the value of X to the zero power?

• 1

• 0

• Undefined

• X

What is the degree of the polynomial Y = -1/3 X^4 - 3X^3 + 3X^2 + 9X?

• 3

• 4

• 2

• 1

What is the leading coefficient of the polynomial Y = -1/3 X^4 - 3X^3 + 3X^2 + 9X?

• -3

• 9

• 3

• -1/3