Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Polynomials are algebraic expressions consisting of variables, coefficients, and exponents, combined using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and non-negative integer exponents.
The degree of a polynomial is determined by the highest exponent in any term. It helps classify polynomials as linear (degree 1), quadratic (degree 2), cubic (degree 3), etc.
Factoring involves breaking down polynomials into their simplest form by finding common factors or using techniques like difference of squares or grouping.
Synthetic division is a shortcut method for dividing polynomials by binomials without having to use long division. It simplifies polynomial division calculations.