Simplifying Algebraic Expressions: Key Concepts and Techniques

What is the main difference between solving equations and simplifying expressions?

• Both involve rewriting the expression in its simplest form.

• Solving equations involves finding the value of the variable, while simplifying expressions involves rewriting the expression in its simplest form.

• Solving equations involves rewriting the expression in its simplest form, while simplifying expressions involves finding the value of the variable.

• Both involve finding the value of the variable.

When simplifying expressions, what is the first step?

• Combining like terms

• Finding the value of the variable

• Eliminating parentheses

• Adding constants

What does it mean to combine like terms?

• To find the value of the variable

• To join together terms with the same variables

• To eliminate parentheses

• To rewrite the expression in its simplest form

In the expression 6(2x + 3) - 4, what should be done first?

• Combine like terms

• Distribute the 6

• Add 2x and 3

• Subtract 4

What is the result of distributing 6 in the expression 6(2x + 3)?

• 12x + 18

• 6x + 18

• 12x + 3

• 6x + 3

How do you handle a fraction when simplifying an expression?

• Add the fraction to each term inside the parentheses

• Multiply the fraction by the entire expression

• Distribute the fraction to each term inside the parentheses

• Ignore the fraction

What should you do when you encounter a negative sign in front of parentheses?

• Add it to the terms inside the parentheses

• Ignore it

• Distribute it as a negative one

• Treat it as a positive sign

In the expression -3(y + 5) - 2y + 1, what is the first step?

• Subtract 2y

• Combine like terms

• Distribute the -3

• Add y and 5

What is the simplified form of -3(y + 5) - 2y + 1?

• -3y - 15 - 2y + 1

• -5y - 14

• -5y + 14

• -3y + 5 - 2y + 1

Why is it important to keep the sign in front of a term when simplifying expressions?

• It helps in finding the value of the variable

• It changes the variable

• It ensures the expression remains equivalent

• It makes the expression longer