Chapter 9
Plugging In Polynomials
IN THIS CHAPTER
Examining the standard polynomial form
Graphing and finding polynomial intercepts
Determining function signs on intervals
Using the tools of algebra to dig up rational roots
Taking on synthetic division in a natural fiber world
The word polynomial comes from poly-, meaning many, and -nomial, meaning name or designation. Binomial (two terms) and trinomial (three terms) are two of the many names or designations used for selected polynomials. The terms in a polynomial are made up of numbers and letters that get stuck together with multiplication.
Although the name may seem to imply complexity (much like Albert Einstein, Pablo Picasso, or Mary Jane Sterling), polynomials are some of the easier functions or equations to work with in algebra. The exponents used in polynomials are all whole numbers — no fractions or negatives. Polynomials get progressively more interesting as the exponents get larger; they can have more intercepts and turning ...
Become an O’Reilly member and get unlimited access to this title plus top books and audiobooks from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers, thousands of courses curated by job role, 150+ live events each month,
and much more.
Read now
Unlock full access