Chapter 1
Linear Equations and Graphing
Course: Gre
Subject: Gre Quantitative Reasoning
Chapter: Linear Equations And Graphing
What is a Polynomial?
A polynomial is a mathematical expression that has two or more terms separated by addition or subtraction.
A term is a single mathematical expression consisting of:
- A constant (a number) alone, OR
- A constant multiplied by one or more variables
Sometimes the constant is 1, so the variable is written alone without a number (like x or y).
Examples of Polynomials:
- 2x² - 3
- 4x² - 2x + 5
- 3x + 4
- 5x³ - 2x² + x - 7
Important Notes:
- Any terms that can be combined must be combined
- Polynomials can be added to, subtracted from, and multiplied with other polynomials
- These operations combine polynomials into one new polynomial
Adding Polynomials
Adding polynomials is straightforward. Think of it like combining groups of similar items—you can only combine things that are the same type.