What are the like terms in the expression?
[tex]$4 m-9+3 n+2$[/tex]
Answer (1)
Identify the terms in the expression: 4 m , − 9 , 3 n , and 2 .
Determine that like terms are constant terms.
Identify the constant terms: − 9 and 2 .
Conclude that the like terms are − 9 and 2 : − 9 and 2 .
Explanation
Understanding the Problem We are given the expression 4 m − 9 + 3 n + 2 and asked to identify the like terms. Like terms are terms that have the same variable raised to the same power. Constant terms are also like terms.
Identifying the Terms In the expression 4 m − 9 + 3 n + 2 , we have the following terms:
4 m : This term contains the variable m .
− 9 : This is a constant term.
3 n : This term contains the variable n .
2 : This is a constant term.
Identifying Like Terms The like terms are the constant terms, which are − 9 and 2 .
Final Answer Therefore, the like terms in the expression 4 m − 9 + 3 n + 2 are − 9 and 2 .
Examples
In everyday life, combining like terms can be seen when calculating expenses. For example, if you spend $4 on apples, receive $2 in change, and spend $3 on bananas, you can combine the dollar amounts to determine your net spending. The expression would be 4 − 2 + 3 , where 4 , − 2 , and 3 are like terms representing dollar amounts. Combining them simplifies the calculation to 4 − 2 + 3 = 5 , indicating a total expense of $5. This concept is crucial for budgeting and managing finances effectively.
