Like Terms can be added and subtracted.
In an expression 2b+3b, there are two lots of b and three lots of b, which gives 5 lots of b altogether. Therefore 2b+3b=5b. This is called simplifying an expression.
The expression 3c+4d cannot be simplified, because c and d are unlike terms. This is also true of the expression 3+4e, as the number and 4e are unlike terms.
Another term that cannot be simplified is 3f+4f2. The f and the f2 are different powers and are therefore unlike terms.
Simplify 3p+4p-5t
The 3p and the 4p can be added together as they are like terms. The 5t cannot be subtracted from the other terms, as it is an unlike term.
3p+4p-5t=7p-5t
Answer: 7p-5t
Simplify 3m+2m-2m2-5m
The m terms can be added together, as they are all like terms.
3m+2m-5m=0m, which means there are no ms.
The remaining term is 2m2
Answer: 2m2
See also Vocabulary