Learning how to re order a polynomial to determine the degree and leading coefficient

The video tutorial explains how to identify the degree and leading coefficient of a polynomial. It emphasizes rewriting polynomials in descending order of powers and clarifies the concept of missing powers by using visual aids. The degree is identified as the largest power, and the leading coefficient is the coefficient of the term with the largest power. The tutorial provides a step-by-step approach to understanding these concepts, ensuring clarity in polynomial expressions.

What is the first step in identifying the degree and leading coefficient of a polynomial?

• Rewrite the polynomial in ascending powers

• Find the sum of all coefficients

• Rewrite the polynomial in descending powers

• Identify the constant term

When rewriting a polynomial, why might some powers not be explicitly written?

• They are implied and understood

• They are always zero

• They are not important for calculations

• They are only used in advanced mathematics

What is the leading term in the polynomial 1/2 X^3 - 3 X^2 + 8X - 2?

• -3 X^2

• -2

• 8X

• 1/2 X^3

How is the degree of a polynomial determined?

• By the smallest power of X

• By the number of terms in the polynomial

• By the largest power of X

• By the sum of all coefficients

What is the leading coefficient of the polynomial 1/2 X^3 - 3 X^2 + 8X - 2?

• 3

• -2

• 8

• 1/2