Algebra 1 · Polynomials & Exponents

Polynomial

Algebra 1 · Polynomials & Exponents

Definition

A polynomial is an expression of one or more terms with whole-number exponents on the variables.

Examples

  • x2 + 3x − 5 is a polynomial.
  • 4x3 − x is a polynomial.

Key rule

Exponents must be whole numbers for a polynomial.

Memory hook

Poly = many terms, whole-number powers.