Coefficient

Definition of Coefficient

• The Coefficient of a term in an expression is the number which is multiplied by one or more variables or powers of variables in the term.

More about Coefficient

• Coefficients can be positive or negative or zero.
• While adding or subtracting polynomials, you just have to add or subtract the coefficients in the like terms.

Examples of Coefficient

• 5x – 3: Here 5 is the coefficient of the linear term 5x.
• 3xy² - 7z: Here 3 and - 7 are the coefficients of the first and second terms respectively.

Solved Example on Coefficient

Find the coefficient of p in p³ + 2p² - 5p - 1.
Choices:
A. 1
B. - 1
C. 2
D. - 5
Correct Answer: D
Solution:
Step 1: The coefficient of p in the expression p³ + 2p² - 5p - 1 is – 5.

Related Terms for Coefficient

• Polynomial
• Variable
• Power
• Term
• Expression