How do you determine degree in polynomials?

Identify the degree of the polynomial a^2b – ab + 2

I said the degree was 3.

Question

How do you determine degree in polynomials? 

Identify the degree of the polynomial a^2b – ab + 2

I said the degree was 3.

chriss · Answer

The degree is the value of the highest exponent in the expression.  In this case the highest exponent is 2, so the degree is 2.

anonymous · Answer

$$a^2b -ab+2$$

anonymous · Answer

So, you don't add the exponents of one term?

anonymous · Answer

if that don't work, use a thermometer...:)

chriss · Answer

no.  you would only add the exponents if the variable was the same.  a and b are different so you would not add their exponents.

chriss · Answer

Actually I take that back. I just looked it up and you do in fact add the exponents. An explanation is here.. http://tutorial.math.lamar.edu/Classes/Alg/Polynomials.aspx

anonymous · Answer

Thanks!

chriss · Answer

you're welcome.

Seems I needed a refresher myself :P