PreCalculus Flashcard 2.3

Front

What is synthetic division?

Back

Synthetic division is a simplified form of polynomial long division that is used to divide a polynomial by a linear factor of the form (x - c). It is faster and requires less writing than traditional long division.

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Back

The value is 7.

Front

What do you do when you encounter a missing exponent in a polynomial?

Back

You must put a zero as a coefficient placeholder for that exponent.

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Back

The degree is 3, which is the highest exponent of the variable x.

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Back

The result is 12 (3 + 4 + 5).

Front

What is the next step after multiplying in synthetic division?

Back

The next step is to add the result to the next coefficient.

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What does it mean for a polynomial to be in standard form?

Back

A polynomial is in standard form when its terms are arranged in descending order of their degrees.

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What is the purpose of using a placeholder in polynomial expressions?

Back

Placeholders are used to maintain the correct degree of the polynomial and ensure proper alignment during operations.

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Back

The result is 3.

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What is the significance of the leading coefficient in a polynomial?

Back

The leading coefficient determines the end behavior of the polynomial function and influences its graph.