Parts of an Expression

Parts of an Expression

By Lily Welch

the expression

3a +2b - 6

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has 3 terms​

In algebra it is either a single number or variable, or a variable and its coefficient. They are separated by + or - signs​

Term

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the expression

3a +2b - 6

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has 2 variables

a and b

A symbol used to represent an unknown quantity. It is usually a letter.

Variable

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3a +2b - 6

A mathematical phrase that contains operators, numbers, and/or variables. It does not have an equal sign.

Expression

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the expression

3a +2b - 6

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has 2 coefficients

3 and 2​

The number in front of the variable in a term.

Coefficient

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the expression

3a +2b - 6

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The constant is -6

A term without a variable - a number on its own

Constant

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3x, x, and -6x are like terms

terms with the same variable raised to the same power

Like Terms

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