Writing Algebraic Expressions
Algebraic expressions are numerical expressions with variables that show how quantities are related.
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Algebraic Expressions Using Addition and Subtraction
When writing algebraic expressions, we use variables to represent unknown quantities and symbols to to represent mathematical operations. The answer to an addition problem is called the sum and the answer to a subtraction problem is called a difference.
Write algebraic expressions to represent the following phrases.
A. Five less than a number
B. A number increased by seven
C. The sum of 23 and a number
D. The difference of a number and 14
Five less than a number is because we are subtracting 5 fromA number increased by seven is because we are adding 7 to
The sum of 23 and a number is because the word "sum" indicates addition.
The difference of a number and 14 is because the word "difference" indicates subtraction.
Algebraic Expressions Using Multiplication and Division
The answer to a multiplication problem is called the product and the answer to a division problem is called the quotient.
Write algebraic expressions to represent the following phrases.
A. The product of 34 and a number
B. 15 times greater than a number
C. The quotient of -10 and a number
The product of 34 and a number is because the word "product" indicates multiplication.15 times greater than a number is because we are multiplying 15 and
The quotient of -10 and a number is because the word "quotient" indicates division.
Writing Algebraic Expressions from Word Problems
Algebra's power lies in its ability to model real-world situations and represent complex situations in concise ways. In order to accomplish this, we need to express written statements mathematically.
Stuart belongs to a health club that charges him $100 per month, plus $12 per fitness class that he attends. If he attends classes in one month, how much money will he owe the health club?
The base fee for the health club is $100, so Stuart will need to pay $100 whether he takes any classes or not. Since he is paying $12 per class, he will owe a total of for his classes. Therefore, the total amount that he will owe the health club is