7x^-3y^-3 we have determine if it is a polynomial, how many terms and variables there are and the degree?
I am guessing that it is a polynomial there is 1 term and 2 variables but how do I find the degree.

Question

7x^-3y^-3 we have determine if it is a polynomial, how many terms and variables there are and the degree?
I am guessing that it is a polynomial there is 1 term and 2 variables but how do I find the degree.

anonymous · Answer

$$7x ^{-3}y ^{-3}$$

anonymous · Answer

negative exponents?

anonymous · Answer

first of the power of polynomial cannot be negative.

parthkohli · Answer

Seriously? Never seen a "polynomial" with a negative exponent.

parthkohli · Answer

Now just leave it like "It's not a polynomial."

anonymous · Answer

Thank you, I am new to using polnomials and I am confused by them

parthkohli · Answer

The degree of a polynomial is always positive. (That is obvious, since all the exponents you see in a polynomial are positive!)

noelgreco · Answer

Polynomials cannot have negative exponents.  3y^(-3) is the same a 3/y^3.  No variables in the denominator for a polynomial - just like the last one you did, Ebby.

anonymous · Answer

Thanks again

parthkohli · Answer

$$\cancel{my}\text{ our pleasure!} $$

noelgreco · Answer

Polynomials can have fractional coefficients, but must have positive integer powers of the variable(s).  No variable EVER in the denominator, as a fraction like z^(4/3), or with a negative exponent (which is the same as being in the denominator.)  Have fun.