Simplifying Algebraic Expressions

Front

What is an algebraic expression?

Back

An algebraic expression is a mathematical phrase that can include numbers, variables, and operation symbols (like +, -, *, /). For example, 3x + 5 is an algebraic expression.

Front

What does it mean to simplify an algebraic expression?

Back

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

Front

What is a coefficient in an algebraic expression?

Back

A coefficient is a numerical factor that multiplies a variable. For example, in 6f^2, 6 is the coefficient.

Front

What is a constant in an algebraic expression?

Back

A constant is a fixed value that does not change. For example, in the expression 5g^3 + 2, the number 2 is a constant.

Front

How do you combine like terms?

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To combine like terms, you add or subtract the coefficients of terms that have the same variable raised to the same power.

Front

Simplify the expression: -5(x + 4)

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-5x - 20

Front

What is the result of -r - 10r?

Back

-11r

Front

Simplify by combining like terms: 5a + 2b - 3a + 4

Back

2a + 2b + 4

Front

What is a variable in an algebraic expression?

Back

A variable is a symbol (often a letter) that represents an unknown value. For example, in 4x + 3, x is a variable.

Front

What does it mean for terms to be 'like terms'?

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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.