The degree of a polynomial is equal to the greatest exponent of the variable of the polynomial that appears among its terms.
On the other hand, the leading coefficient of a polynomial is the coefficient of the term that displays the greatest exponent.
In this case, the polynomial is formed by three terms: -x, 8x² and -9x³.
The exponents of the variable x on those terms are 1, 2 and 3.
Since the greatest exponent is 3, then the degree of the polynomial is 3.
The coefficient of the term with the exponent 3 is -9, then the leading coefficient is -9.
Therefore, the answers are:
Degree: 3
Leading coefficient: -9
