Mathematics
Grade 9
15 min
Identify equivalent linear expressions
Identify equivalent linear expressions
Tutorial Preview
1
Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Define and identify the components of a linear expression, including terms, coefficients, and constants.
Apply the distributive, commutative, and associative properties to rewrite and simplify linear expressions.
Combine like terms to simplify a linear expression into its most concise form.
Determine if two linear expressions are equivalent by simplifying both expressions algebraically.
Verify the equivalence of two linear expressions by substituting a given value for the variable.
Create an equivalent expression by factoring a linear expression.
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Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
Linear ExpressionAn algebraic expression in which the highest exponent of any variable is one. It can be represented as a line when graphed.The expression `5x - 9` is linear. The expression `5x^2 - 9` is not.
TermA single part of an expression, separated by addition or subtraction signs. It can be a number, a variable, or a product of numbers and variables.In the expression `7y - 4z + 12`, the terms are `7y`, `-4z`, and `12`.
CoefficientThe numerical factor that is multiplied by a variable in a term.In the term `-3p`, the coefficient is `-3`.
Like TermsTerms that have the exact same variable(s) raised to the exact same power(s). Constants are also considered like terms.`2x` and `-5x` are like terms. `2x` and `2y` are not.
ConstantA term that does not contain any vari...
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Core Formulas
Distributive Property
a(b + c) = ab + ac
Use this rule to multiply a single term by every term inside a set of parentheses. This is essential for expanding expressions.
Commutative Property of Addition
a + b = b + a
This rule states that you can reorder terms being added without changing the final result. It's useful for grouping like terms together.
Combining Like Terms
ax + bx = (a + b)x
To simplify an expression, you can add or subtract the coefficients of terms that have the identical variable part.
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Challenging
Are the expressions `3(4a - b) + 2(a + 5b)` and `14a + 7b` equivalent?
A.Yes, they are equivalent.
B.No, the first expression simplifies to `14a - 2b`.
C.No, the first expression simplifies to `10a + 4b`.
D.No, the first expression simplifies to `14a + 9b`.
Challenging
For what value of `k` are the expressions `5(2x + k) - 3` and `10x + 12` equivalent?
A.k = 2
B.k = 9
C.k = 15
D.k = 3
Challenging
A rectangle has a width of `x` units. Its length is 4 units less than three times its width. Which expression is NOT equivalent to the perimeter of the rectangle?
A.2(x) + 2(3x - 4)
B.2x + 6x - 8
C.8x - 8
D.2(4x - 2)
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