Check definition of trinomial: Check the definition of a trinomial. A trinomial is a polynomial with three terms.
Count terms in 5+xy: Count the number of terms in 5+xy. There are two terms: 5 and xy.
Compare with trinomial definition: Compare the number of terms to the definition of a trinomial. Since there are only two terms, 5+xy is not a trinomial.
More problems from Factor sums and differences of cubes