Algebraic Expressions

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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.

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What does it mean to evaluate an expression?

Back

To evaluate an expression means to calculate its value by substituting the variables with given numbers.

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What are like terms?

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

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How do you combine like terms?

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To combine like terms, add or subtract the coefficients of the terms that are alike. For example, 11g - 9g + 8g = (11 - 9 + 8)g = 10g.

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What is the distributive property?

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The distributive property states that a(b + c) = ab + ac. It allows you to multiply a single term by two or more terms inside a set of parentheses.

Front

Evaluate the expression: 5x + 3 when x = 2.

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5(2) + 3 = 10 + 3 = 13.

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What is a coefficient in an algebraic expression?

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A coefficient is a numerical factor that multiplies a variable. In 4x, 4 is the coefficient.

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What is a variable in an algebraic expression?

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A variable is a symbol, usually a letter, that represents an unknown value. For example, in the expression 2y + 3, y is the variable.

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What does it mean to simplify an expression?

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To simplify an expression means to reduce it to its simplest form by combining like terms and performing any operations.

Front

Evaluate the expression: 3m - 5t when m = 7 and t = 2.

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3(7) - 5(2) = 21 - 10 = 11.