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Math

Dec 13, 2025

1,056

12 pages

Understanding Operations on Polynomials: Basic to Advanced

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Knowunity Philippines @knowunityphilippines

Ever wondered how mathematicians work with complex expressions involving variables? Polynomials are everywhere - from calculating costs in... Show more

# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials

What Are Polynomials and How Do We Classify Them?

You're already familiar with expressions like 2x + 3, but polynomials take this further by combining variables and numbers using only addition, subtraction, and multiplication. The key rule? Your variable exponents must be whole numbers (no fractions or negatives allowed).

Writing polynomials in standard form means arranging terms from highest to lowest power. So 3x² + 5x - 2 is spot on, whilst 5x - 2 + 3x² needs rearranging.

The degree of a polynomial is simply the highest exponent - this determines how the polynomial behaves. Linear polynomials (degree 1) like 2x + 3 create straight lines, whilst quadratic polynomials (degree 2) like x² - 4x + 1 create curves.

Remember Monomials have one term, binomials have two terms, trinomials have three terms, and anything with four or more terms is just called a polynomial.

# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials

Adding and Subtracting Polynomials

Adding polynomials is like organising your wardrobe - you group like terms together (terms with identical variables and exponents). Once grouped, simply add or subtract the coefficients.

For addition, identify like terms, group them, then combine their coefficients. Adding 3x2+5x23x² + 5x - 2 + 2x23x+72x² - 3x + 7 becomes 5x² + 2x + 5 after grouping and combining.

Subtraction works similarly, but you must distribute the negative sign to every term in the second polynomial first. Think of it as changing subtraction into "adding the opposite."

Pro tip Always double-check your signs when subtracting - it's the most common place students slip up!

# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials

Multiplying Polynomials and Special Patterns

Multiplying polynomials requires the distributive property on steroids - every term in the first polynomial must multiply every term in the second. When multiplying monomials like 3x² · 4x³, multiply coefficients (3 × 4 = 12) and add exponents x2x3=x5x² · x³ = x⁵ to get 12x⁵.

For binomials, use the FOIL method (First, Outer, Inner, Last). Multiplying 2x+32x + 3x4x - 4 gives you 2x² - 8x + 3x - 12, which simplifies to 2x² - 5x - 12.

Learn these special patterns - they're lifesavers a+ba + b² = a² + 2ab + b² and a+ba + baba - b = a² - b². These patterns pop up constantly in algebra.

Quick check When multiplying x+5x + 5², many students forget the middle term 2ab - the answer is x² + 10x + 25, not just x² + 25!

# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials

Dividing Polynomials Like a Pro

Polynomial division mirrors long division with numbers, but uses variables. Arrange both polynomials in standard form, then divide the leading terms, multiply back through, subtract, and repeat until finished.

For synthetic division, you can only divide by linear factors like xcx - c. This shortcut method uses just coefficients - write them in a row, use the value c, then multiply and add in a pattern. It's much faster once you get the hang of it.

When dividing x³ - 6x² + 11x - 6 by x - 2, synthetic division gives quotient x² - 4x + 3 with remainder 0. This means x2x - 2 divides evenly into the original polynomial.

Real-world connection Division helps find average rates - like calculating monthly profit averages for businesses over different time periods.

# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials
# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials
# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials
# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials
# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials
# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

14

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Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

 

Math

1,056

Dec 13, 2025

12 pages

Understanding Operations on Polynomials: Basic to Advanced

user profile picture

Knowunity Philippines

@knowunityphilippines

Ever wondered how mathematicians work with complex expressions involving variables? Polynomials are everywhere - from calculating costs in business to measuring areas of fields. Think of them as mathematical building blocks that you can add, subtract, multiply, and divide just... Show more

# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

What Are Polynomials and How Do We Classify Them?

You're already familiar with expressions like 2x + 3, but polynomials take this further by combining variables and numbers using only addition, subtraction, and multiplication. The key rule? Your variable exponents must be whole numbers (no fractions or negatives allowed).

Writing polynomials in standard form means arranging terms from highest to lowest power. So 3x² + 5x - 2 is spot on, whilst 5x - 2 + 3x² needs rearranging.

The degree of a polynomial is simply the highest exponent - this determines how the polynomial behaves. Linear polynomials (degree 1) like 2x + 3 create straight lines, whilst quadratic polynomials (degree 2) like x² - 4x + 1 create curves.

Remember: Monomials have one term, binomials have two terms, trinomials have three terms, and anything with four or more terms is just called a polynomial.

# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Adding and Subtracting Polynomials

Adding polynomials is like organising your wardrobe - you group like terms together (terms with identical variables and exponents). Once grouped, simply add or subtract the coefficients.

For addition, identify like terms, group them, then combine their coefficients. Adding 3x2+5x23x² + 5x - 2 + 2x23x+72x² - 3x + 7 becomes 5x² + 2x + 5 after grouping and combining.

Subtraction works similarly, but you must distribute the negative sign to every term in the second polynomial first. Think of it as changing subtraction into "adding the opposite."

Pro tip: Always double-check your signs when subtracting - it's the most common place students slip up!

# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Multiplying Polynomials and Special Patterns

Multiplying polynomials requires the distributive property on steroids - every term in the first polynomial must multiply every term in the second. When multiplying monomials like 3x² · 4x³, multiply coefficients (3 × 4 = 12) and add exponents x2x3=x5x² · x³ = x⁵ to get 12x⁵.

For binomials, use the FOIL method (First, Outer, Inner, Last). Multiplying 2x+32x + 3x4x - 4 gives you 2x² - 8x + 3x - 12, which simplifies to 2x² - 5x - 12.

Learn these special patterns - they're lifesavers: a+ba + b² = a² + 2ab + b² and a+ba + baba - b = a² - b². These patterns pop up constantly in algebra.

Quick check: When multiplying x+5x + 5², many students forget the middle term 2ab - the answer is x² + 10x + 25, not just x² + 25!

# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Dividing Polynomials Like a Pro

Polynomial division mirrors long division with numbers, but uses variables. Arrange both polynomials in standard form, then divide the leading terms, multiply back through, subtract, and repeat until finished.

For synthetic division, you can only divide by linear factors like xcx - c. This shortcut method uses just coefficients - write them in a row, use the value c, then multiply and add in a pattern. It's much faster once you get the hang of it.

When dividing x³ - 6x² + 11x - 6 by x - 2, synthetic division gives quotient x² - 4x + 3 with remainder 0. This means x2x - 2 divides evenly into the original polynomial.

Real-world connection: Division helps find average rates - like calculating monthly profit averages for businesses over different time periods.

# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

# Polynomials and polynomial functions: Operations on polynomials

Master addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

14

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user