Questions: Determine if the expression -a^-5 is a polynomial or not. If it is a polynomial, state the type and degree of the polynomial.

Transcript text: Classifying Polynomials Score: 1/2 Penalty: none Question Show Examples Determine if the expression $-a^{-5}$ is a polynomial or not. If it is a polynomial, state the type and degree of the polynomial. Answer Attempt iout of 2 The given expression $\square$ a polynomial.

Solution

Solution Steps

To determine if the expression $-a^{-5}$ is a polynomial, we need to check if it meets the criteria for a polynomial. A polynomial is an expression consisting of variables and coefficients, involving only non-negative integer powers of the variables. Since the expression $-a^{-5}$ involves a negative exponent, it is not a polynomial.

Step 1: Identify the Expression

The given expression is $-a^{-5}$. We need to analyze its structure to determine if it qualifies as a polynomial.

Step 2: Check for Polynomial Criteria

A polynomial is defined as an expression that consists of variables raised to non-negative integer powers. In this case, the term $-a^{-5}$ includes the variable $a$ raised to the power of $-5$, which is a negative exponent.

Step 3: Conclusion

Since the expression contains a negative exponent, it does not meet the criteria for being a polynomial. Therefore, we conclude that $-a^{-5}$ is not a polynomial.

Final Answer

$\boxed{\text{Not a polynomial}}$

Was this solution helpful?

Unhelpful

Helpful

Questions asked by other users

< Previous Next >

Thank you for your feedback.

Copied!