Evaluating Polynomials
To evaluate a polynomial, we replace each variable with the given
number, then simplify.
Example
Evaluate this polynomial when w = -3 and y = 2: 6w2 + 4wy - y4
+ 5
Solution
Substitute -3 for w and 2 for y.
|
|
6(-3)2 |
+ |
4(-3)(2) |
- |
(2)4 |
+ 5 |
First, do the calculations with
the exponents.
|
= |
6(9) |
+ |
4(-3)(2) |
- |
16 |
+ 5 |
Multiply.
|
= |
54 |
- |
24 |
- |
16 |
+ 5 |
Add and subtract. |
= |
19 |
|
|
|
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