Question

What is the degree of the polynomial $(x + 3)(x - 8)$?

Hint:

Degree rules:
Product of two linear polynomials → degree 2
Add degrees when multiplying polynomials
Example: $(x)(x)$ gives degree $2$.

Answer 1

Concept: The degree of a polynomial is the highest power of the variable in its expanded form. 
Step 1: Expand the polynomial \[ (x + 3)(x - 8) \] Using distributive property: \[ x(x - 8) + 3(x - 8) \] \[ = x^2 - 8x + 3x - 24 \] \[ = x^2 - 5x - 24 \] Step 2: Identify highest power The highest power of $x$ is $2$. 
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{2} \]