Polynomial Vocabulary and Classifications

Vocabulary terms and classification categories for polynomials, including definitions related to degrees, terms, theorems, and graph behaviors.

Leading Term

The term with the highest exponent.

Leading Coefficient

The coefficient of the variable with the highest exponent.

Monomial

A number, variable, or a product of numbers and variables (a polynomial with $1$ term).

Odd Function

A function symmetric about the origin.

Polynomial

The sum or difference of many monomials (an expression with $4+$ terms).

Relative Maximum

A turning point that is higher than any nearby point.

Relative Minimum

A turning point that is lower than any nearby point.

Remainder Theorem

If a polynomial $P(x)$ is divided by $(x - a)$, the remainder is equal to $P(a)$.

Standard Form

Polynomials written in descending order by their exponents.

Turning Point

The point where a graph changes directions.

Constant

A polynomial of degree $0$.

Linear

A polynomial of degree $1$.

Quadratic

A polynomial of degree $2$.

Cubic

A polynomial of degree $3$.

Quartic

A polynomial of degree $4$.

Quintic

A polynomial of degree $5$.

Binomial

A polynomial consisting of $2$ terms.

Trinomial

A polynomial consisting of $3$ terms.

Degree

The highest exponent of a polynomial

Even Function

A function symmetric about the y- axis

Factor Theorem

An expression, (x-a), is a factor of a polynomial, P(x), if and only if P(a)=0