A polynomial anxn+⋯+a0 has degree n (when an=0), leading coefficient an, and constant term a0. Two polynomials are equal (as functions) exactly when their degrees match and every corresponding coefficient matches -- the basis of the method of undetermined coefficients.
Division algorithm. For polynomials f,g with g=0: f(x)=q(x)g(x)+r(x) with degr<degg, uniquely. When g(x)=x−a, the remainder is the constant r(x)=f(a) -- the Remainder Theorem. Consequently f(a)=0⟺(x−a) is a factor of f(x) -- the Factor Theorem.
Zeros and multiplicity. If f(x)=(x−a)kg(x) with g(a)=0, a is a zero of multiplicity k (multiplicity 1 = 'simple root'). A degree-n polynomial has AT MOST n distinct real zeros -- possibly fewer, possibly none (e.g. x2+1). …