Pre-Algebra - Terminologies

A monomial is a mathematical number that stands alone and does not have a negative exponent. “Mono” refers to “one.” For example: 14x² is a monomial as it stands alone. 26 is also a monomial. However, 9x^-3 is not because the exponent is a negative.

A binomial consists of two monomials linked together with either an addition sign (+), a minus sign (-) or a multiplication sign (x). For example: 11x⁴ + 7x².

A trinomial consists of three monomials linked together with either an addition sign (+), a minus sign (-) or a multiplication sign (x). For example: 6x⁵ + 5x² - 4.

A polynomial consists of multiple monomials linked together. “Poly” means many. For example: 10x⁴ + 3x² - 4 + 5x. In truth, a binomial and a trinomial can also be referred to as polynomial but generally a polynomial will have at least four monomials or terms as each monomial or number is also referred to as a “term.”