Algebra Vocabulary

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What is an expression in algebra?

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An expression is a combination of numbers, variables, and operations (like addition or multiplication) without an equal sign. Example: 8 + d.

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What is an equation in algebra?

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An equation is a mathematical statement that shows two expressions are equal, using an equal sign. Example: 5x + 4 = 24.

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How many terms are in the expression 5x + 4?

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There are 2 terms in the expression: 5x and 4.

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What does the variable represent in an expression?

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A variable represents an unknown value and is usually denoted by a letter, such as x or y.

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What is a coefficient in algebra?

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A coefficient is a number that is multiplied by a variable in an expression. Example: In 5x, 5 is the coefficient.

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What is a constant in algebra?

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A constant is a fixed value that does not change. Example: In the expression 5x + 7, 7 is a constant.

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What is the difference between an expression and an equation?

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An expression does not have an equal sign, while an equation does. Example: 8 + d (expression) vs. 8 + d = 10 (equation).

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What is a term in algebra?

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A term is a single mathematical expression that can be a number, a variable, or a combination of both multiplied together. Example: 3xy is a term.

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What is the purpose of parentheses in algebraic expressions?

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Parentheses indicate which operations should be performed first in an expression. Example: In (2 + 3) × 4, you add 2 and 3 first.

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What is a polynomial?

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A polynomial is an expression that consists of variables raised to whole number powers and coefficients. Example: 4x^2 + 3x + 2.