1.1.4 Simplifying Algebraic Expressions Key Objectives • Translate words into algebraic expressions.
• Evaluate algebraic expressions. • Simplify algebraic expressions. • Write, simplify, and evaluate algebraic expressions in real-world applications. Key Terms • A variable is a letter or symbol that represents a quantity that can change. • An algebraic expression contains one or more variables and may contain operation symbols. Example 1 Translating Words into Algebraic Expressions To translate a real-world situation into an algebraic expression, first determine the action being described. Then choose the operation that is indicated by the type of action, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division. Use variables to represent unknown quantities.
Example 2 Evaluating Algebraic Expressions To evaluate an algebraic expression, substitute a number for each variable and simplify using the order of operations.
26
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker