3rd degree polynomial is called a cubic

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A 3rd degree polynomial is referred to as a cubic, while a 2nd degree polynomial is called a quadratic. The term "quadratic" derives from the Latin word "quadratus," which means "square." This nomenclature is linked to the function's focus on calculating the area of squares. The discussion also touches on the playful nature of forum interactions, emphasizing community engagement. Understanding these terms is essential for grasping polynomial functions in mathematics.
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A 3rd degree polynomial is called a cubic, and a 2nd degree is a quadratic. But quad implies 4. Why is a 2nd degree called quadratic?
 
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The word comes from the Latin word quadratus, meaning "square". Quadratic functions deal with calculating the area of squares.
 
Thank you! You didn't make up that screen name just to answer my question, did you :)
 
tony873004 said:
You didn't make up that screen name just to answer my question, did you :)

LOL no, I just keep to myself mostly. I couldn't resist answering your question though :smile:
 

Thread 'Area of Overlapping Squares'

Here is a little puzzle from the book 100 Geometric Games by Pierre Berloquin. The side of a small square is one meter long and the side of a larger square one and a half meters long. One vertex of the large square is at the center of the small square. The side of the large square cuts two sides of the small square into one- third parts and two-thirds parts. What is the area where the squares overlap?
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