Polynomials and Operations flashcards

Question 1

What is a polynomial in $x$?

Accepted Answer

A polynomial is a finite sum $a_nx^n+a_{n-1}x^{n-1}+\cdots+a_1x+a_0$ where $n$ is a nonnegative integer and the coefficients $a_i$ are constants (real numbers).

Question 2

When do you use a distributive property (area model) approach for polynomials?

Accepted Answer

When multiplying polynomials: distribute each term in one polynomial across every term in the other, then combine like terms.

Question 3

State the special product formulas for squares and difference of squares.

Accepted Answer

$$(a+b)^2=a^2+2ab+b^2,\quad (a-b)^2=a^2-2ab+b^2,\quad (a+b)(a-b)=a^2-b^2.$$

Polynomials and Operations flashcards

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