A polynomial is a mathematical expression that consists of variables, coefficients, and exponents combined using addition, subtraction, and multiplication. The general form of a polynomial can be written as a_nx^n + a_n-1x^n-1 + \ldots + a_1x + a_0 , where a_n, a_n-1, \ldots, a_0 are constants, x is the variable, and n is a non-negative integer representing the highest exponent. Polynomials can be classified based on their degree, which is determined by the highest exponent of the variable. For example, a polynomial of degree 2 is called a quadratic, while one of degree 3 is known as a cubic. Polynomials are widely used in various fields, including algebra, calculus, and engineering, to model relationships and solve equations.