Simplifying Expressions

Front

What is the distributive property in algebra?

Back

The distributive property states that a(b + c) = ab + ac, meaning you can distribute a factor across a sum.

Front

How do you simplify an expression using the distributive property?

Back

To simplify an expression using the distributive property, multiply each term inside the parentheses by the factor outside the parentheses.

Front

What are like terms in algebra?

Back

Like terms are terms that have the same variable raised to the same power, allowing them to be combined.

Front

How do you combine like terms?

Back

To combine like terms, add or subtract the coefficients of the terms that have the same variable and exponent.

Front

What is the result of simplifying the expression 5(2 - 7n)?

Back

The result is 10 - 35n.

Front

What does it mean to simplify an expression?

Back

To simplify an expression means to reduce it to its simplest form, combining like terms and applying the distributive property as needed.

Front

What is the process for simplifying the expression 4x^2 - 3x + 11 - 2x?

Back

Combine like terms: 4x^2 - (3x + 2x) + 11 = 4x^2 - 5x + 11.

Front

How do you simplify the expression 11(b - 3)?

Back

Use the distributive property: 11b - 33.

Front

What is the result of simplifying -8(3 + 4w)?

Back

The result is -24 - 32w.

Front

What is the importance of simplifying expressions in algebra?

Back

Simplifying expressions makes it easier to solve equations and understand relationships between variables.