Question 1086959: Determine whether the function is a polynomial function.
f(x) = x^3/2 - x^6 + 6
No
Yes
Found 2 solutions by mathmate, ikleyn:
Answer by mathmate(429)   (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website! Question:
Determine whether the function is a polynomial function.
f(x) = x^3/2 - x^6 + 6
Solution:
This question shows the importance of the PEMDAS rules, and why we should stick to the rules.
A polynomial is an expression of *one or more* algebraic terms, especially the sum of several terms that contain different *non-negative integrer* powers of the same variable(s).
(above definition is adapted from Google definition, which defines poly in the usual sense of two or more. In math, a monomial is also considered a polynomial for generality, also, the important condition of *non-negative integer* powers was added).
As it is, the rules of PEMDAS interpret the function as:
f(x) = (x³)/2 - x^6 +6 [exponential before multiplication/division]
which makes it a polynomial, because the powers are non-negative integer powers.
However, I have a hunch that the question was meant to read
f(x) = x3/2 - x^6 +6
which makes it a non-integer power, and therefore this second case is not a polynomial. The answer can only be determined after confirmation of the question.
Answer by ikleyn(52784)  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website! .
When you submit formulas to this forum, use parentheses properly and systematically.
It is THE ONLY WAY to make your formulas readable.
Without it they are UNREADABLE.
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