Answer: a polynomial function is an algebraic expression that consists of variables raised to non-negative whole number exponents and multiplied by coefficients. It can have different degrees and forms, and it is used in various mathematical applications.
Explanation:
A polynomial function is a type of mathematical function that consists of variables raised to non-negative whole number exponents and multiplied by coefficients. It is an algebraic expression that can be written as the sum of terms, each of which is a constant multiplied by a variable raised to a power.
For example, the function f(x) = 3x^2 + 2x - 5 is a polynomial function. In this function, x is the variable and the exponents are 2, 1, and 0. The coefficients are 3, 2, and -5.
Polynomial functions can have different degrees, which is the highest exponent in the function. In the example above, the degree of the polynomial function is 2 because the highest exponent is 2.
Polynomial functions can have various forms, such as linear functions (degree 1), quadratic functions (degree 2), cubic functions (degree 3), and so on. They can also have multiple terms, like the example given.
Polynomial functions are used in various areas of mathematics, including algebra, calculus, and statistics. They can be used to model real-world situations, solve equations, and analyze data.
In summary, a polynomial function is an algebraic expression that consists of variables raised to non-negative whole number exponents and multiplied by coefficients. It can have different degrees and forms, and it is used in various mathematical applications.