Question

what is the leading coefficient of the polynomial $9x^5 - 4x^3 + 3$?
a. 3
b. -4
c. 4
d. 9

Explanation:

Step1: Identify highest degree term

The polynomial is $9x^5 - 4x^3 + 3$. The term with the highest exponent of $x$ is $9x^5$.

Step2: Extract coefficient of this term

The coefficient of $x^5$ in $9x^5$ is 9, which is the leading coefficient.

Answer:

d. 9