Algebraic Vocabulary

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What is an expression in algebra?

Back

An expression is a combination of numbers, variables, and operators (like + and -) without an equality sign. Example: n - 4.

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What is a variable?

Back

A variable is a symbol (often a letter) that represents an unknown value. Example: h in the expression 3h + 2.

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What is a term in algebra?

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A term is a single number or variable, or numbers and variables multiplied together, separated by + or - signs. Example: 2x and -4 are terms.

Front

What is an algebraic expression?

Back

An algebraic expression is a mathematical phrase that can include numbers, variables, and operators, but does not have an equality sign. Example: 4x + 5.

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What is an algebraic equation?

Back

An algebraic equation is a statement that two expressions are equal, indicated by an equals sign. Example: 3r + 2 = 35.

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What is a coefficient?

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A coefficient is a number that is multiplied by a variable in an expression. Example: In 4x, 4 is the coefficient.

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What is a constant?

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A constant is a fixed value that does not change. Example: In the expression 3x + 5, the number 5 is a constant.

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What does it mean to solve an equation?

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To solve an equation means to find the value of the variable that makes the equation true.

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What is the difference between an expression and an equation?

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An expression does not have an equals sign, while an equation does. Example: 2x + 3 is an expression; 2x + 3 = 7 is an equation.

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What is a linear equation?

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A linear equation is an equation of the first degree, meaning it has no exponents greater than one. Example: 2x + 3 = 7.