Polynomial Equations - are you using the term incorrectly?

"Polynomial Equations" tends to be an expression used rather loosely and much of the time, incorrectly.  In my experience, when a student refers to Polynomial equations, they are in fact referring to polynomials.  A polynomial equation is a polynomial put equal to something.  

A polynomial is NOT an equation.  The equations mostly studied at the elementary math level are linear equations or quadratic equations.  

So - onto Polynomials.

Definition of a Polynomial

Definition: A Polynomial is a finite sum of monomials.

Some Examples of these would be:

Classification of Polynomials

We can classify Polynomials in two ways.

1: By the number of monomials (terms) they contain.

  • Monomial - Contains one term
  • Binomial- Contains two terms
  • Trinomial - Contains three terms

2:  By the degree of the Polynomial.  The degree of a polynomial with only ONE variable is the highest power to which that variable is raised.
  • Trinomial of degree 3
  • Binomial of degree 1
  • Monomial of degree 0

Once you have learned the classification of the polynomial, the next step to take is learning how to add, subtract, multiply and divide polynomials.

If you enjoyed the information presented here on polynomial equations, please feel free to explore all the other great information I offer. You may just find the Algebra Help you are looking for!

Don't forget to explore all the other great material offered by Printable Math Worksheets.

Keep In Touch!

You can send me a quick message, follow me on Facebook  or why not join our community of like minded parents? Choose all the options so you don't miss any of the new material added to this site.