When terms have the same algebraic factor, they are called __________....
- When terms have the same algebraic factor, they are called like terms.
- Like terms have identical variables raised to the same powers, but they may have different coefficients.
- For example, in the expression 3x2 + 5x - 2x2, the terms 3x2 and -2x2 are like terms.
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When terms have the same algebraic factor, they are called __________....
Understanding Like Terms
When discussing algebraic expressions, it is important to grasp the concept of like terms. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Definition of Like Terms
- Like terms are terms that contain the same variables raised to the same powers.
- They can have different coefficients, but the variable part must remain consistent.
Examples of Like Terms
- Consider the terms 3x and 5x. Both contain the variable x and are therefore like terms.
- Similarly, 2y^2 and 4y^2 are like terms since they both have the variable y raised to the power of 2.
Identifying Unlike Terms
- Unlike terms are those that do not share the same variable factors. For example, 3x and 4y are unlike terms because they involve different variables.
- Recognizing unlike terms is crucial for operations like addition or subtraction, as you can only combine like terms.
Importance in Algebra
- Combining like terms simplifies algebraic expressions, making them easier to work with.
- For instance, in the expression 2x + 3x, you can combine the like terms to get 5x.
Conclusion
In summary, when terms share the same algebraic factor, they are called like terms. This fundamental concept is essential for simplifying and solving algebraic expressions effectively.
When terms have the same algebraic factor, they are called __________....
When terms have the same algebraic factor, they are called like terms.