Simplifying Algebraic Expressions

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What is an algebraic expression?

Back

An algebraic expression is a mathematical phrase that can include numbers, variables, and operation symbols. It does not have an equality sign.

Tags

CCSS.6.EE.A.2B

Front

What does it mean to simplify an algebraic expression?

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To simplify an algebraic expression means to combine like terms and reduce it to its simplest form.

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CCSS.7.EE.A.1

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What are like terms in algebra?

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Like terms are terms that have the same variable raised to the same power. For example, 3x and 5x are like terms.

Tags

CCSS.6.EE.A.2B

Front

How do you combine like terms?

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To combine like terms, add or subtract their coefficients while keeping the variable part the same. For example, 3x + 5x = 8x.

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CCSS.7.EE.A.1

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What is the distributive property?

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The distributive property states that a(b + c) = ab + ac. It allows you to multiply a single term by each term inside a parenthesis.

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CCSS.6.EE.A.3

Front

How do you apply the distributive property to simplify expressions?

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To apply the distributive property, multiply the term outside the parentheses by each term inside the parentheses and then combine like terms.

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CCSS.6.EE.A.3

Front

What is a coefficient in an algebraic expression?

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A coefficient is a numerical factor that multiplies a variable. For example, in 4x, 4 is the coefficient.

Tags

CCSS.6.EE.A.2B

Front

What is a constant in an algebraic expression?

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A constant is a fixed value that does not change. For example, in the expression 3x + 5, 5 is the constant.

Tags

CCSS.6.EE.A.2B

Front

What is the process for simplifying the expression -2(x + 4) - (4x + 8)?

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First, apply the distributive property: -2x - 8 - 4x - 8. Then combine like terms: -2x - 4x = -6x and -8 - 8 = -16, resulting in -6x - 16.

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CCSS.6.EE.A.3

Front

What is the result of simplifying the expression 22y + 12?

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The expression 22y + 12 is already in its simplest form, as there are no like terms to combine.

Tags

CCSS.7.EE.A.1