Simplifying 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, 2x + 3 is an algebraic expression.

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What does it mean to simplify an algebraic expression?

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To simplify an algebraic expression means to combine like terms and reduce it to its simplest form.

Front

What are like terms?

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

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How do you combine like terms?

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To combine like terms, add or subtract their coefficients while keeping the variable part the same. For example, 3x + 5x = 8x.

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What is the distributive property?

Back

The distributive property states that a(b + c) = ab + ac. It allows you to multiply a single term by each term inside a parenthesis.

Front

Simplify the expression: 2(x + 3) + 4.

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2x + 6 + 4 = 2x + 10.

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What is the result of subtracting two algebraic expressions?

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To subtract two algebraic expressions, distribute the negative sign and then combine like terms.

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Simplify the expression: (5x + 2) - (3x + 4).

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5x + 2 - 3x - 4 = 2x - 2.

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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. For example, in 4x, 4 is the coefficient.

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What does it mean to factor an expression?

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Factoring an expression means to express it as a product of its factors. For example, x^2 - 9 can be factored as (x - 3)(x + 3).