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Question Determine if the expression \( -\frac{7}{m^{3}} \) is a polynomial or not. If it is a polynomial, state the type and degree of the polynomial. Answer Attempt 1 out of 2 The given expression Submit Answer

Ask by Lewis Bob. in the United States
Feb 03,2025

Real Tutor Solution

Tutor-Verified Answer

Answer

The expression \( -\frac{7}{m^{3}} \) is not a polynomial because it contains a negative exponent.

Solution

To determine whether the expression \( -\frac{7}{m^{3}} \) is a polynomial, let's review the definition of a polynomial: **Definition of a Polynomial:** A polynomial in one variable \( m \) is an expression of the form: \[ a_n m^n + a_{n-1} m^{n-1} + \dots + a_1 m + a_0 \] where: - \( a_n, a_{n-1}, \dots, a_0 \) are constants (coefficients). - \( n \) is a non-negative integer representing the degree of the polynomial. **Analyzing the Given Expression:** \[ -\frac{7}{m^{3}} \] This can be rewritten using negative exponents: \[ -7m^{-3} \] **Key Points:** 1. **Exponents:** In a polynomial, the exponents of the variable must be non-negative integers (0, 1, 2, 3, ...). Here, the exponent is \(-3\), which is negative. 2. **Form:** The presence of a negative exponent indicates that the variable is in the denominator, which violates the polynomial definition. **Conclusion:** Since the expression \( -\frac{7}{m^{3}} \) involves a negative exponent, it **does not** qualify as a polynomial. **Final Answer:** The expression \( -\frac{7}{m^{3}} \) is **not** a polynomial because it includes a negative exponent.

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The Deep Dive

The given expression \( -\frac{7}{m^{3}} \) is not a polynomial. In a polynomial expression, the exponents of the variable must be non-negative integers (0, 1, 2, etc.). Here, the exponent of \( m \) is -3, which violates this rule. To clarify, polynomials can include structures like \( 2m^2 + 3m + 5 \), where all exponents are whole numbers. Intervals where negative exponents are involved are typically treated within a different realm of mathematics involving rational functions, not polynomials.

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