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EVALUATE AN ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSION

Evaluate An Algebraic Expression

Definition Of Evaluate An Algebraic Expression

The process of replacing the variables in an expression with the numerical values and simplifying it is known as evaluating an algebraic expression.

More About Evaluate an Algebraic Expression

Order of operation is used to evaluate an algebraic expression.

Video Examples: Evaluating Algebraic Expressions
 

Example of Evaluate an Algebraic Expression

To evaluate the algebraic expression '4.5 + x' for x = 3.2, we need to replace x with 3.2 and then add.
4.5 + x = 4.5 + 3.2 
=7.7

Solved Example on Evaluate an Algebraic Expression
Ques: Evaluate the algebraic expression p + 3q + 2p - 3q, for p = 2 and q = - 5.
Choices:
A. 12
B. 18
C. 3
D. 6
Correct Answer: D

Solution:

Step 1: p + 3q + 2p - 3q [Original expression.]
Step 2: = (p + 2p) + (3q - 3q) [Group the like terms together.]
Step 3: = 3p [Solve within the grouping symbols.]
Step 4: = 3 x 2 [Substitute 2 for p.]
Step 5: = 6 [Multiply.]

Quick Summary

  • Substitute numerical values for variables.
  • Simplify the expression using the order of operations.
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🍎 Teacher Insights

Emphasize the importance of showing each step clearly. Use real-world examples to illustrate the concept. Provide ample practice problems with varying levels of difficulty.

🎓 Prerequisites

  • Order of operations
  • Basic arithmetic operations
  • Understanding variables

Check Your Knowledge

Q1: Evaluate the expression 2x + 3 for x = 4.

Q2: Evaluate the expression p + 3q + 2p - 3q, for p = 2 and q = - 5.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the order of operations?
A: The order of operations is a set of rules that dictate the order in which mathematical operations should be performed. It is commonly remembered using the acronym PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division, Addition and Subtraction).

Q: Why is it important to follow the order of operations?
A: Following the order of operations ensures that everyone arrives at the same correct answer when evaluating an expression.

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