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 are the coefficients, x is the variable, and n is a non-negative integer representing the degree of the polynomial. Polynomials can be classified based on their degree. A polynomial of degree 0 is a constant, while a degree 1 polynomial is a linear function, and a degree 2 polynomial is called a quadratic. Higher-degree polynomials, such as cubic (degree 3) and quartic (degree 4), have more complex shapes and behaviors. Polynomials are widely used in various fields, including algebra, calculus, and engineering.