Western Governors University (WGU) MATH1200 C957 Applied Algebra Practice Exam

A linear polynomial is defined as a polynomial of degree 1, which means that the highest power of its variable is one. This characteristic defines its linearity, as a linear polynomial can be written in the form \(ax + b\), where \(a\) and \(b\) are constants and \(a\) is not equal to zero. The presence of the variable raised to the first power indicates a single dimension or a straight line when graphed. Therefore, the maximum exponent of a linear polynomial is indeed 1, confirming that the correct answer reflects this fundamental property of linear polynomials.