simplifying algebraic 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 combine like terms in an algebraic expression?

Back

To combine like terms, identify terms that have the same variable raised to the same power and add or subtract their coefficients.

Front

What is the first step in simplifying the expression 3(2x + 1) + 2x - 8?

Back

The first step is to apply the distributive property: 3 * 2x + 3 * 1 = 6x + 3.

Front

What does it mean to simplify an algebraic expression?

Back

Simplifying an algebraic expression means to reduce it to its simplest form by combining like terms and applying the distributive property.

Front

What is the result of simplifying the expression 7(a + 8) - 5a + 4?

Back

The result is 2a + 60.

Front

How do you simplify the expression 4(x + 6) + 2x - 4?

Back

First, distribute: 4x + 24 + 2x - 4. Then combine like terms: 6x + 20.

Front

What is the simplified form of the expression a - 8 - 10?

Back

The simplified form is a - 18.

Front

How do you simplify the expression -9(p - 2) - 4p?

Back

Distribute -9: -9p + 18 - 4p. Then combine like terms: -13p + 18.

Front

What is a 'like term' in algebra?

Back

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

Front

What is the importance of parentheses in algebraic expressions?

Back

Parentheses indicate which operations should be performed first, following the order of operations.