Algebra and Functions Vocabulary

A set of vocabulary flashcards defining key mathematical terms related to algebraic expressions, functions, polynomials, and graph analysis.

Interval of decreasing

A section where the graph is moving down from left to right.

Interval of increasing

A section where the graph is moving up from left to right.

Interval of positive

A section where the graph is above the $x$-axis.

Interval of negative

A section where the graph is below the $x$-axis.

Domain

The interval between which the graph exists from left to right.

Range

The interval between which the graph exists from the bottom to the top.

Monomial

A one term polynomial consisting of a coefficient and variable.

Binomial

A two term polynomial involving coefficients and variables.

Trinomial

A three term polynomial involving coefficients and variables.

Exponent

Represents the power given to a number or expression used to indicate it will multiply to itself a number of times.

Term

An individual part of a math expression separated between addition and subtraction signs, and can be a number, a variable, or a combination, often with exponents.

Coefficient

A number or constant number that is being multiplied with a variable, usually in front of the letter.

Quadratic function

Has a U-shaped curve when drawn and follows the format $f(x) = ax^2 + bx + c$ where $a$, $b$, and $c$ are constants.

Linear function

Has a constant slope and a straight-line graph. It is expressed in the form $y = mx + b$.

Y-intercept

A point in which a line crosses the $y$-axis.

X-intercept

A point in which a line crosses the $x$-axis.

Local maximum

A high point on the graph, but not the highest out of the entire graph.

Local minimum

A low point on the graph, but not the lowest of the entire graph.

Absolute maximum

The highest point in all of a graph.

Absolute minimum

The lowest point in all of a graph.