Understanding Like Terms in Mathematics: Simplifying Algebraic Expressions

Like terms

Like terms in mathematics refer to terms that have the same variable(s) raised to the same power(s)

Like terms in mathematics refer to terms that have the same variable(s) raised to the same power(s). They can be combined together by adding or subtracting.

For example, let’s consider the following algebraic expression:
3x + 5y – 2x – 2y

In this expression, we have two terms with ‘x’ variables: 3x and -2x. Since they have the same variable ‘x’ raised to the first power, these terms are like terms. Similarly, we have two terms with ‘y’ variables: 5y and -2y, which are also like terms.

To simplify this expression, we can combine the like terms:
(3x – 2x) + (5y – 2y)
= x + 3y

Therefore, the simplified form of the expression 3x + 5y – 2x – 2y is x + 3y.

It is important to note that like terms cannot be combined if they have different variables or different exponents. For example, 2x^2 and 3x are not like terms because their variables have different exponents.

More Answers:

Understanding Terms in Mathematics: Breaking Down Expressions and Equations
Understanding Coefficients: Exploring the Numerical Factors in Math Equations and Formulas
Understanding the Importance and Applications of Constants in Mathematics

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