What are the differences between linear and cubic polynomials?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the differences between linear and cubic polynomials. This involves understanding their definitions, degrees, general forms, and graphical representations.
Answer
Linear polynomials have a degree of 1 forming a straight line. Cubic polynomials have a degree of 3 forming a curve.
The main differences between linear and cubic polynomials lie in their degree and shape. A linear polynomial has a degree of 1, forming a straight line, while a cubic polynomial has a degree of 3, creating a curve with up to two turning points.
Answer for screen readers
The main differences between linear and cubic polynomials lie in their degree and shape. A linear polynomial has a degree of 1, forming a straight line, while a cubic polynomial has a degree of 3, creating a curve with up to two turning points.
More Information
The degree of a polynomial determines its maximum number of roots (zeros) and turning points. A linear polynomial has at most one root and no turning points, while a cubic polynomial has at most three roots and up to two turning points.
Tips
Confusing the degree of the polynomial with the number of terms it has. The degree is the highest power of the variable, not the number of terms.
Sources
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