Simplifying Expressions

Front

What does it mean to simplify an expression?

Back

To simplify an expression means to reduce it to its simplest form by combining like terms and performing any necessary arithmetic operations.

Front

What are like terms in an algebraic expression?

Back

Like terms are terms that have the same variable raised to the same power. For example, 3x and 5x are like terms, while 3x and 4y are not.

Front

How do you distribute a number across a parenthesis?

Back

To distribute a number across a parenthesis, multiply the number by each term inside the parenthesis. For example, 3(x + 4) becomes 3x + 12.

Front

What is the result of simplifying the expression 8(x - 3)?

Back

The result is 8x - 24.

Front

How do you combine like terms in the expression 10 + 4(2n + 3) - 11n?

Back

First, distribute 4 to get 10 + 8n + 12 - 11n. Then combine like terms: 10 + 12 + (8n - 11n) = -3n + 22.

Front

What is the simplified form of the expression 9z - 21 - 3z + 10?

Back

The simplified form is 6z - 11.

Front

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

Back

The result is 10 - 35n.

Front

How do you simplify the expression 15x + 2 - 5x + 6?

Back

Combine like terms: (15x - 5x) + (2 + 6) = 10x + 8.

Front

What is the first step in simplifying an expression with parentheses?

Back

The first step is to distribute any coefficients outside the parentheses to each term inside the parentheses.

Front

What is the importance of combining like terms in algebra?

Back

Combining like terms is important because it helps to simplify expressions, making them easier to work with and understand.