- Negative of a Polynomial
For a polynomial P(x), its negative denoted as – P(x) is obtained by interchanging the
signs of the terms of P(x).
For instance, if P(x) = x^2 + 5x + 9
then, –P(x) = – x^2 – 5x - 9
Note that, P(x) + [ –P(x)] = P(x) – P(x) = 0The idea may be taught through exercises adopted for addition, subtraction, etc.
- Value of a Polynomial
The value of a polynomial is obtained by replacing the variable in the polynomial by
a numerical constant. That is, if P(x) is the given polynomial then the value of the
polynomial when x = a is equal to P(a).
For instance, if P(x) = 2x^2 + 5x - 20
Then the value of the polynomial when x = 2 will be,
P(2) = 2(2)^2 + 5(2) – 20
= 2(4) + 10 – 20
= 8 + 10 – 20
= 18 – 20
= –2
Asking the child to perform a few sums on his own in addition to the oral explanation
of the idea will enhance the understanding level of the child. As there are mostly
visual ideas, use of braille text is very important.
- Zero of a Polynomial
If the value of the polynomial is equal to zero, then the value of ‘x’ becomes the zero
of the polynomial.