Polynomials 02: Simplifying

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Polynomials 02: Simplifying

Sometimes polynomials are written in forms which are more complex than they need to be. In this lesson we will look at how to simplify polynomials when possible. Like terms are terms which have the same variable and degree. This means that all of the terms which are

$x^2$ can be combined for instance. A

$x^2$ cannot however be combined with an

$x$ as they are both unique.

In the polynomial expression

$3x^2+x^2+6x-2x+1$ we can combine the

$3x^2$ and

$x^2$ since they are like terms which will give

$4x^2$ . We can then combine the

$6x$ and

$-2x$ to give

$4x$ . The

$1$ has no like terms so it stays on its own. The simplified expression is then

$4x^2+4x+1$

The degree of the term is the value of the exponent of the term.

$x^3$ is a degree of 3.

$4y^2$ is a degree of 2.

$7z$ is a degree of 1.

Simplified polynomials are written with descending degree and in alphabetical order. For example

$a^3+3b^3-2c^3+2a^2-b^2+5c^2-a+4b-8c+5$

$4x^3-z^3+x^2+4y^2-9y+z-3$ .

Directions for this Lesson:

Watch the video below and complete the practice questions.

Required Video:

Related Worksheets:

Simplifying Poylnomials

Related Lessons:

Additional Resources:

Simplifying Polynomials

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Polynomials 02: Simplifying

Polynomials 02: Simplifying