What component is present in the equation of a cubic function that is not in a quadratic function?

In a cubic function, the defining characteristic that distinguishes it from a quadratic function is the presence of the cubic term. This term is associated with the highest degree of the function, which in the case of a cubic function is three. The general form of a cubic function is expressed as ( ax^3 + bx^2 + cx + d ), where ( a ) (the coefficient of ( x^3 )) must be non-zero in order for the function to be classified as cubic.

Quadratic functions, on the other hand, are defined by their highest degree of two, represented in the general form ( ax^2 + bx + c ). As such, they do not include any cubic term and are limited to the constant, linear, and quadratic terms.

Thus, the cubic term is essential for the definition of a cubic function and is not found in quadratic functions. This unique feature allows cubic functions to exhibit more complex behaviors and characteristics compared to quadratics.