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. 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 are like terms?

Back

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

Front

Simplify the expression: 3x + 5x.

Back

8x.

Front

What is the distributive property?

Back

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

Front

Simplify the expression: 2(x + 3).

Back

2x + 6.

Front

What is the result of combining like terms: 4y + 2y - 3y?

Back

3y.

Front

Simplify the expression: -4(x - 5) - 6(7x - 8).

Back

-46x + 68.

Front

What is a coefficient in an algebraic expression?

Back

A coefficient is a numerical factor that multiplies a variable. In 5x, 5 is the coefficient.

Front

Simplify the expression: -2(x + 4) - (4x + 8).

Back

-6x - 16.