Polynomial functionsUnit 1

Leading coefficient of an expanded polynomial

Read the coefficient of the highest-degree term after simplifying.

  • Find the highest power with a non-zero coefficient.
  • Read its coefficient, including its sign.
  • A missing written coefficient means 1 or −1.

Example 1

Keep the negative sign

State the leading coefficient.

Example 2

Collect first

Find the coefficient of the leading term.

Simplify the numerical terms and collect like terms.

Your turn

Question 1

State the leading coefficient.

Check answer
Question 2

State the leading coefficient.

Check answer
Question 3

State the leading coefficient.

Check answer
Question 4

State the leading coefficient.

Check answer
Question 5

State the leading coefficient.

Check answer
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