Polynomial Degree and Leading Coefficient

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Objective

I can identify the degree and leading coefficient of a polynomial.

Part 1 of 3

Key concepts

3 concepts

  1. 1

    The degree of a polynomial is the highest power of the variable in the expression.

  2. 2

    In the polynomial 3x⁵ + 2x³ - x + 7, the degree is 5 and the leading coefficient is 3.

  3. 3

    The leading coefficient and degree of a polynomial influence the graph's orientation and stretch.

Part 2 of 3

Practice

3 questions

1

What is the degree of the polynomial 7x³ - 2x² + 5x - 1?

2

Determine the leading coefficient and the degree of the polynomial: -4x⁶ + 3x⁴ - x² + 9.

Part 3 of 3

Exit ticket

Quick comprehension check

Identify the degree and leading coefficient of the polynomial: 7x⁴ - 5x² + 2x - 9

Sample answer included in the free materials

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