Mastering Algebra 1: Combining Like Terms Worksheet
Algebra 1 is a fundamental subject that requires a strong understanding of various mathematical concepts, including combining like terms. Combining like terms is a crucial skill that helps students simplify algebraic expressions and solve equations. In this worksheet, we will explore the concept of combining like terms, provide examples, and offer a comprehensive worksheet for practice.
What are Like Terms?
Like terms are terms that have the same variable(s) raised to the same power. For example, 2x and 3x are like terms because they both have the variable x raised to the power of 1. On the other hand, 2x and 3x^2 are not like terms because they have different powers of x.
How to Combine Like Terms
Combining like terms involves adding or subtracting the coefficients of the terms. The coefficients are the numbers that multiply the variables. For example, to combine 2x and 3x, we add the coefficients 2 and 3, resulting in 5x.
Here are the steps to combine like terms:
- Identify the like terms in the expression.
- Add or subtract the coefficients of the like terms.
- Write the resulting term with the combined coefficient and the variable(s).
đź“ť Note: When combining like terms, it's essential to pay attention to the signs of the terms. If the signs are the same, add the coefficients. If the signs are different, subtract the coefficients.
Examples of Combining Like Terms
- Combine 2x and 3x:
2x + 3x = 5x
- Combine 4x^2 and 2x^2:
4x^2 + 2x^2 = 6x^2
- Combine -3x and 2x:
-3x + 2x = -x
Combining Like Terms Worksheet
Now, it’s time to practice combining like terms with our comprehensive worksheet. The worksheet includes 20 problems that cover various scenarios, including adding and subtracting like terms with the same variable and different powers.
Combining Like Terms Worksheet
- 2x + 3x =
- 4x^2 - 2x^2 =
- -3x + 2x =
- 2y + 5y =
- 3x^2 + 2x^2 =
- -2x - 3x =
- 4y^2 + 2y^2 =
- 2x^2 - 3x^2 =
- -3y + 2y =
- 5x + 2x =
- 3x^2 - 2x^2 =
- -2y - 3y =
- 2x + 4x =
- 3y^2 + 2y^2 =
- -4x + 2x =
- 5x^2 - 3x^2 =
- 2y - 3y =
- 4x + 2x =
- 2x^2 + 3x^2 =
- -3y + 5y =
Answer Key
- 5x
- 2x^2
- -x
- 7y
- 5x^2
- -5x
- 6y^2
- -x^2
- -y
- 7x
- x^2
- -5y
- 6x
- 5y^2
- -2x
- 2x^2
- -y
- 6x
- 5x^2
- 2y
Conclusion
Combining like terms is a fundamental skill in algebra that requires attention to detail and practice. With this worksheet, you can practice combining like terms and improve your understanding of algebraic expressions. Remember to pay attention to the signs of the terms and combine the coefficients accordingly. Happy practicing!
What are like terms in algebra?
+Like terms are terms that have the same variable(s) raised to the same power.
How do you combine like terms in algebra?
+To combine like terms, add or subtract the coefficients of the terms.
Why is it essential to pay attention to the signs of the terms when combining like terms?
+When combining like terms, it’s crucial to pay attention to the signs of the terms because adding or subtracting coefficients with different signs can change the result.
Related Terms:
- Combining like terms PDF
