Overview
This chapter introduces the concept of Polynomials, which are algebraic expressions consisting of variables and coefficients. Students will learn about different types of polynomials, their degrees, and various operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. The chapter also covers key concepts like the Remainder Theorem, Factor Theorem, and factorization of polynomials.
Types of Polynomials
- Linear Polynomial: A polynomial of degree 1 (e.g., \( 2x + 3 \)).
- Quadratic Polynomial: A polynomial of degree 2 (e.g., \( x^2 - 5x + 6 \)).
- Cubic Polynomial: A polynomial of degree 3 (e.g., \( 4x^3 + 3x^2 - x + 7 \)).
Zeroes of a Polynomial
A real number \( k \) is called a zero of the polynomial \( p(x) \) if \( p(k) = 0 \). Finding zeroes helps in factorizing polynomials and solving polynomial equations.
Remainder Theorem
Factor Theorem
Factorization of Polynomials
Polynomials can be factorized using various methods such as splitting the middle term, using algebraic identities, or applying the Factor Theorem.
Algebraic Identities
Some useful algebraic identities for polynomials include:
- \( (a + b)^2 = a^2 + 2ab + b^2 \)
- \( (a - b)^2 = a^2 - 2ab + b^2 \)
- \( a^2 - b^2 = (a + b)(a - b) \)
- \( (a + b + c)^2 = a^2 + b^2 + c^2 + 2ab + 2bc + 2ca \)
Division Algorithm for Polynomials
If \( p(x) \) and \( g(x) \) are two polynomials with \( g(x) \neq 0 \), then there exist unique polynomials \( q(x) \) (quotient) and \( r(x) \) (remainder) such that: