Adding and Subtracting 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 +, -, *, /).

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 in algebra?

Back

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

Front

How do you combine like terms?

Back

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

Front

What is the first step in adding algebraic expressions?

Back

The first step is to group like terms together, placing variable terms first followed by constant terms.

Front

What is the sum of the expressions (−3r + 8) and (5r − 1)?

Back

The sum is 2r + 7.

Front

What is the difference between two algebraic expressions?

Back

The difference is found by subtracting the second expression from the first, combining like terms afterward.

Front

What is the difference of the expressions (4x − 8) and (−6.5x + 5)?

Back

The difference is 10.5x - 13.

Front

How do you handle negative signs when subtracting algebraic expressions?

Back

When subtracting, distribute the negative sign to all terms in the second expression before combining like terms.

Front

What is the result of (3 − 4x) − (2.4x − 7)?

Back

The result is -6.4x + 10.