Variables and Expressions Lesson 2-2
Vocabulary A numerical expression is a mathematical phrase with only numbers and operation symbols (+, -, x, ÷). Example: 8 + 5 - 2 An algebraic expression is a mathematical phrase that contains a variable and operation symbols. A variable is a symbol (usually a letter) that stands for a number. Algebraic expression: 5y + 2
Evaluating Numerical Expressions Use PEMDAS (order of operations). 84 – 10 ÷ 2 84 – 5 79
Evaluating Algebraic Expressions Replace the variable with the value that you are given. Now we have a numerical expression. Solve using order of operations.
Example: Evaluate 2b-8 for b=11 2(11)-8 Substitute the 11 for the variable. 22 - 8 Multiplying comes before subtracting. 14
Example 2: Evaluate 5x-y for x=12 and y=14 5(12) - 14 60 - 14 46