aLGEBRA BASICS

Constant, Variable, Term

3 is a constant.

x is a variable.

3x is a term.

3x and 8x are called like terms.

Addition and Subtraction

Only like terms can be added or subtracted.

3x + 5x = 8x

3y – 8y = –5y

4x + 3y – 2x + y = 2x + 4y

3x and 8y are not like terms, so they cannot be simplified futher.

3x + 8y = 3x + 8y

Addition and Subtraction - Interactive Practice

Multiplication and Division

To multiply or divide , terms need not be like terms.

3(5x) = 15x

3(8y) = 24y

12x / 3 = 4x

18y / 9 = 2y

Multiplication and division - Interactive Practice

Expansion

3(5x + 4)

When expanding the above expression, multiply each and every term inside the brackets by x.

3(5x + 4) = 15x + 12

4(8a + 3b - c) = 32a + 12b - 4c

Expansion - Interactive Practice