Addition of Polynomials
Definition
The addition of polynomials involves adding corresponding terms from each polynomial. Corresponding terms are those that have the same variable raised to the same power. The sum is obtained by adding the coefficients of these corresponding terms and keeping the variable part unchanged.
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Arrange Polynomials: Write each polynomial in a standard form (i.e., in descending order of the degrees of its terms).
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Identify Like Terms: Identify the terms in both polynomials that have the same variables raised to the same powers.
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Add the Coefficients: Add the coefficients of the like terms.
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Write the Result: Combine the results to form the new polynomial.
Examples
Example 1: Adding Two Polynomials
Add the polynomials and .
First Polynomials:
Second Polynomial:
The sum is:
Example 2: Adding Polynomials with Different Degrees
Add the polynomials and .
First Polynomials:
Second Polynomial:
The sum is:
Example 3: Adding Polynomials with Missing Terms
Add the polynomials and .
First Polynomials:
Second Polynomial:
The sum is:
Example 4: Adding Polynomials with Negative Coefficients
Add the polynomials and .
First Polynomials:
Second Polynomial:
The sum is: