The Combining Like Terms Calculator is a powerful tool designed to simplify algebraic expressions by combining like terms. This calculator is especially useful for students, educators, and anyone working with algebra, as it saves time and effort by automating the process of simplifying expressions.
Formula of Combining Like Terms
CombineLikeTerms(expression)
Variables:
- expression: The algebraic expression containing terms to be combined.
Procedure:
- Parse the expression to identify individual terms.
- Group like terms together based on their variables and exponents.
- Sum the coefficients of like terms to obtain the combined term.
- Construct the new expression by appending the combined terms.
- Return the simplified expression.
General Terms Table
| Search Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Combining like terms | Simplifying algebraic expressions by grouping similar terms together. |
| Algebraic expression | A mathematical phrase involving variables, constants, and operations. |
| Like terms | Terms with the same variables and exponents. |
| Coefficients | The numerical factor of a term. |
| Simplification | The process of reducing an expression to its simplest form. |
Example of Combining Like Terms
Given Expression: 3x^2 + 2x – 4x^2 + 5
- Parse the expression: Parsed Terms: 3x^2, 2x, -4x^2, 5
- Group like terms: Grouped Terms: (3x^2, -4x^2), (2x), (5)
- Sum coefficients: Combined Terms: (3 – 4)x^2 + 2x + 5
- Construct the new expression: New Expression: -x^2 + 2x + 5
- Return the simplified expression: Simplified Expression: -x^2 + 2x + 5
Most Common FAQs
A: Like terms are terms in algebraic expressions that have the same variables and exponents. For example, 2x and 3x are like terms because they both have the variable x raised to the power of 1.
A: Simplifying algebraic expressions makes them easier to work with and understand. It also helps in solving equations and performing other algebraic operations more efficiently.
A: Yes, the calculator can handle complex expressions with multiple variables and exponents. It simplifies expressions step-by-step, ensuring accuracy and reliability.