key term - Term of a polynomial function

Definition

A term of a polynomial function is an expression consisting of a coefficient and a variable raised to a non-negative integer exponent. Each term in the polynomial is separated by addition or subtraction.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The degree of a polynomial is determined by the highest exponent in its terms.
2. The leading term of a polynomial is the term with the highest exponent.
3. Each term in the polynomial can have different coefficients and exponents.
4. Constant terms are terms that do not contain any variables, essentially having an exponent of zero.
5. The number of terms in a polynomial determines whether it is called monomial (one term), binomial (two terms), trinomial (three terms), or simply polynomial for more than three terms.

Review Questions

Related terms

Coefficient:

A numerical factor multiplied by the variable(s) in a term.

Degree:

The highest power of the variable in a polynomial.

Leading Term:

The term with the highest exponent in a polynomial.