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. It does not have an equality sign.

Front

What does it mean to add algebraic expressions?

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Adding algebraic expressions involves combining like terms to simplify the expression.

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 subtract algebraic expressions?

Back

To subtract algebraic expressions, you can add the opposite of the expression being subtracted and then combine like terms.

Front

What is the distributive property in algebra?

Back

The distributive property states that a(b + c) = ab + ac, meaning you can distribute a factor across terms inside parentheses.

Front

How do you simplify the expression (-4x + 3) + 2(5x - 6)?

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First, apply the distributive property: 2(5x - 6) = 10x - 12. Then combine like terms: (-4x + 10x) + (3 - 12) = 6x - 9.

Front

What is the result of adding the expressions (8x + 3) and (12x + 5)?

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The result is 20x + 8, obtained by combining like terms: (8x + 12x) + (3 + 5).

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What is the importance of combining like terms?

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Combining like terms simplifies expressions, making them easier to work with and understand.

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What is the result of the expression (6x + 7) + 2(-5x + 2)?

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The result is -4x + 11, found by distributing and combining like terms.

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How do you handle negative coefficients in algebraic expressions?

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Negative coefficients can be treated like any other number; just remember to apply the negative sign when combining like terms.