Polynomial Degrees and Terms

Degrees of a Polynomial

• The degree of a polynomial is determined by the highest exponent of its variable.
• A polynomial with degree 0 is known as a constant, as it has no variable component.
• A polynomial with degree 1 is referred to as linear, representing a straight line when graphed.
• A polynomial with degree 2 is called quadratic, which typically forms a parabolic shape.
• A polynomial with degree 3 is known as cubic, often resulting in an S-shaped curve.
• A polynomial with a degree greater than 3 is designated as an nth degree polynomial.

Number of Terms

• To find the number of terms in a polynomial, rearrange the expression by combining like terms first.
• A polynomial with one term is called a monomial.
• A polynomial with two terms is called a binomial.
• A polynomial with three terms is identified as a trinomial.
• If a polynomial has n terms greater than 3, it is known as a polynomial with nth term.