Problem 86

Question

What is an algebraic expression? Give an example with your explanation.

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
An algebraic expression is a mathematical phrase composed of variables, coefficients, and operators. For example, in the expression 4a - 3b + 2, 'a' and 'b' are variables, 4, -3, 2 are coefficients, and the operations used are addition and subtraction.
1Step 1: Definition
An algebraic expression is a combination of variables, numbers, and at least one algebraic operation like addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division.
2Step 2: Explanation
Objects in an expression are called 'terms', which can be numbers, variables, or a combination of both. The terms are separated by '+' or '-' operations. For example, in the expression 3x + 2, the terms are 3x and 2.
3Step 3: Example
Take the expression 4a - 3b + 2. Here, 4a, -3b, 2 are the terms, 'a' and 'b' are the variables, 4, -3, 2 are the coefficients, and the operations are subtraction and addition.