PERT Practice Test 2026 – Complete Guide for Exam Prep

Question: 1 / 400

Which part of a polynomial describes its highest degree?

Leading coefficient

The leading coefficient is the part of a polynomial that describes its highest degree. In a polynomial, the degree is defined as the highest exponent of the variable present in the expression. The leading coefficient refers to the coefficient of the term that contains this highest degree variable. For example, in the polynomial \(3x^4 + 2x^3 - x + 5\), the term \(3x^4\) is the leading term, where 3 is the leading coefficient and 4 is the degree of the polynomial.

Understanding the role of the leading coefficient is essential, as it not only indicates the term with the highest degree but also impacts the end behavior of the polynomial when graphed. The highest degree of a polynomial helps determine its growth rate and shape, making the leading coefficient an important value.

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Constant term

Degree term

Variable term

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