Polynomial Fundamentals
A polynomial is an expression built from variables, coefficients, and non-negative integer exponents using addition, subtraction, and multiplication. The standard form looks like anxn+an−1xn−1+...+a1x+a0, where the constants $a_n$ to $a_0$ are called coefficients.
The degree of a polynomial is the highest power of the variable. For example, in 3x2−2xy+5, the degree is 2. Each part separated by addition or subtraction is called a term, and the numerical factor in each term is its coefficient. The coefficient of the highest-degree term like the 3 in $3x^4 + 2x^2 - 7$ is the leading coefficient.
When adding or subtracting polynomials, you simply combine like terms. For instance, (3x2+4x−7)+(2x2−x+5) gives you 5x2+3x−2. This works because terms with the same variables and exponents can be grouped together.
Quick Tip: When working with polynomials, always arrange terms in descending order of degree (highest power first). This makes operations easier and helps avoid mistakes!