October 4, 2025

What Is A Term In Mathematics

Q: Is a single number considered a term?

Yes, a single number, such as 4 or -15, is a type of term known as a constant term because its value does not change.

Q: What is the difference between a term and an expression?

An expression is a combination of one or more terms. For example, `7x` is a single term, but `7x + 2y` is an expression made up of two terms.

Q: What is the coefficient of a term like 'x' or '-y'?

When a variable appears without a number in front of it, the coefficient is assumed to be 1. So, the coefficient of 'x' is 1. For '-y', the coefficient is -1.

Q: Does a division sign separate terms?

No, a common misconception is that multiplication or division signs separate terms. In reality, they are part of a single term. For example, `6x/5` is considered one single term. Only addition and subtraction signs separate terms.

Learn what a term is in mathematics. Understand its components, including coefficients, variables, and constants, with clear examples from algebraic expressions.

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What Is a Mathematical Term?

In mathematics, a term is a single number, a variable, or numbers and variables multiplied together. In an algebraic expression, terms are the individual parts that are separated by addition (+) or subtraction (-) signs.

Section 2: Components of a Term

A term consists of two main parts: the coefficient and the variable part. The coefficient is the numerical factor, while the variable part consists of one or more variables raised to a power. A term that is just a number is called a constant term.

Section 3: A Practical Example

Consider the algebraic expression `5x² - 3y + 8`. This expression has three terms. The first term is `5x²`, where 5 is the coefficient and `x²` is the variable part. The second term is `-3y`, with a coefficient of -3 and a variable `y`. The third term, `8`, is a constant term.

Section 4: Why Understanding Terms is Important

Identifying terms is a fundamental skill in algebra. It is the first step in simplifying expressions by combining 'like terms' (terms with the same variable part). This concept is crucial for solving equations and working with polynomials, making it a basic building block for higher-level mathematics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a single number considered a term?

What is the difference between a term and an expression?

What is the coefficient of a term like 'x' or '-y'?

Does a division sign separate terms?