4: Introduction to Algebra
- Page ID
- 137915
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- 4.1: Mathematical Expressions
- In this section we turn our attention to translating word phrases into mathematical expressions. We begin with phrases that translate into sums. There is a wide variety of word phrases that translate into sums. When we combine numbers and variables in a valid way, using operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, exponentiation, and other operations and functions as yet unlearned, the resulting combination of mathematical symbols is called a mathematical expression.
- 4.2: Evaluating Algebraic Expressions
- In this section we will evaluate algebraic expressions for given values of the variables contained in the expressions.
- 4.3: Simplifying Algebraic Expressions
- The commutative property allows us to change the order of multiplication without affecting the product or answer. The associative property allows us to regroup without affecting the product or answer.
- 4.4: Combining Like Terms
- A term is a single number or variable, or it can be the product of a number (called its coefficient) and one or more variables (called its variable part). The terms in an algebraic expression are separated by addition symbols.