Ch. 1.5 | The Language of Algebra

Question 1

Algebra

Answer 1

A generalization of arithmetic.

A system for expressing a relationship between quantities using symbols, numbers, and operations.

Question 2

Algebraic expression

Answer 2

The result of performing mathematical operations on any collection of variables and constants.

Examples include:

1) 8ab
2) x + 4
3) 2x - 5y

Question 3

Coefficient

Answer 3

The numerical part of the term.

In the expression, 8ab, the coefficient is 8.

The term x has a coefficient of 1 since 1x = x.

Question 4

Constant

Answer 4

A symbol that represents a fixed number.

Question 5

Equation

Answer 5

A mathematical sentence stating that two quantities are equal.

Question 6

Formula

Answer 6

An equation that relates at least two variables.

Question 7

Like terms

Answer 7

Two or more algebraic terms with the same variable(s), and with corresponding variables having the same exponent(s).

Question 8

Term

Answer 8

Parts of an algebraic expression separated by plus signs.

May be a number, a variable, or a product of numbers and variables.

Question 9

Variable

Answer 9

A symbol used to represent an unknown number.