5

CHAPTER
Algebra

Solar energy and algebra

Our Sun provides enough energy for all the of the equator, sunlight is spread out due to the
world’s power needs with plenty to spare. Using Earth’s curvature and its intensity is calculated
algebra and advanced technologies, scientists using algebra formulas. For example, sunlight
have invented solar panels that convert sunlight that covers 1 m2 on the equator will be spread
into electrical power. over 2 m2 in Norway (60° N) at only half the
intensity.
Light intensity affects the amount of power that
solar panels produce. Sunlight arrives above our Huge solar power stations are being constructed
atmosphere with an intensity of 1368 Watts/m2. world-wide. Following the 2015 Paris agreement,
Here satellites collect sunlight for their power governments worldwide are investing in solar
needs. On the equator, at noon, the sunlight energy to help meet their targets for reduced
intensity is around 1 kW/m2. North and south carbon emissions. The largest solar farms to
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 Online resources
A host of additional online resources are
included as part of your Interactive Textbook,
including HOTmaths content, video
demonstrations of all worked examples,
auto-marked quizzes and much more.

In this chapter

5A Introduction to algebra
5B Substituting and evaluating
5C Equivalent expressions
5D Like terms
5E Multiplying and dividing expressions
5F Expanding brackets (EXTENDING)
5G Algebraic modelling

Australian Curriculum

NUMBER AND ALGEBRA

Patterns and algebra

Introduce the concept of variables as a

way of representing numbers using letters
(ACMNA175)

Create algebraic expressions and evaluate

them by substituting a given value for each
variable (ACMNA176)

Extend and apply the laws and properties

of arithmetic to algebraic terms and
expressions (ACMNA177)

© ACARA

date are in the Sahara Desert, Africa, India and China.

In 2019, Australia had over 60 solar farms, either
operational or under construction, and over 2 million
homes using solar panels.

Algebra is an essential tool for the engineers who develop

renewable energy technologies, including electrical,
environmental, chemical, computer, mechanical and solar
engineers.

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 276 Chapter 5 Algebra

5A Introduction to algebra
Learning intentions
• To know the basic terminology of algebra
• To be able to identify coefficients, terms and constant terms within expressions
• To be able to write expressions from word descriptions

A pronumeral is a letter that can represent a number. The choice of letter used is not significant mathemat-
ically, but can be used as an aid to memory. For instance, h cm might stand for someone’s height and w kg
might stand for someone’s weight. Remember that each pronumeral stands in place of a number (e.g. the
number of centimetres, the number of kilograms).

The table shows the salary Petra earns for various hours of Numbers of hours Salary earned ($)
work if she is paid $12 an hour.
1 12 × 1 = 12
Rather than writing 12 × n, we write 12n because multiplying 2 12 × 2 = 24
a pronumeral by a number is common and this notation saves 3 12 × 3 = 36
18 n 12 × n = 12n
space. We can also write 18 ÷ n as .
n

LESSON STARTER Pronumeral stories

Ahmed has a jar with b biscuits. He eats 3 biscuits and then shares the rest equally among 8 friends. Each
b−3 b−3
friend receives biscuits. This is a short story for the expression . (Note that b does not stand
8 8
for ‘biscuits’. It stands in place of ‘the number of biscuits’.)
b−3
• Try to create another story for , and share it with others in the class.
8
• Can you construct a story for 2t + 12? What about 4(k + 6) ?

KEY IDEAS
■ In algebra, letters can be used to stand for numbers. A pronumeral is a letter that stands for a number.
If a pronumeral could represent any number rather than just one, it is also called a variable.
a
■ a × b is written as ab and a ÷ b is written as .
b
■ A term consists of numbers and pronumerals combined with multiplication or division.
4xyz
For example, 5 is a term, x is a term, 9a is a term, abc is a term, is a term.
3
■ A term that does not contain any pronumerals is called a constant term. All numbers by
themselves are constant terms.

■ An (algebraic) expression consists of numbers and pronumerals combined with any mathematical
operations. For example, 3x + 2yz is an expression and 8 ÷ (3a − 2b) + 41 is also an expression.

■ A coefficient is the number in front of a pronumeral. For example, the coefficient of y in the
expression 8x + 2y + z is 2. If there is no number in front, then the coefficient is 1, since 1z and z
are equal.

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 5A Introduction to algebra 277

BUILDING UNDERSTANDING
1 The expression 4x + 3y + 24z + 7 has four terms.
a State all the terms.
b What is the constant term?
c What is the coefficient of x?
d Which letter has a coefficient of 24?
2 Match each of the word descriptions on the left with the correct mathematical expression on
the right.
a the sum of x and 4 A x−4
x
b 4 less than x B
4
c the product of 4 and x C 4−x
d one-quarter of x D 4x
4
e the result from subtracting x from 4 E
x
f 4 divided by x F x+4

Example 1 The terminology of algebra

a State the individual terms in the expression 3a + b + 13c.

b State the coefficient of each pronumeral in the expression 3a + b + 13c.
c Give an example of an expression with exactly two terms, one of which is a constant term.

SOLUTION EXPLANATION
a There are three terms: 3a, b and 13c. Each part of an expression is a term. Terms get
added (or subtracted) to make an expression.

b The coefficient of a is 3, the coefficient of b The coefficient is the number in front of a

is 1 and the coefficient of c is 13. pronumeral. For b the coefficient is 1 because
b is the same as 1 × b.

c 27a + 19 (There are many other possible This expression has two terms, 27a and 19, and
expressions.) 19 is a constant term because it is a number
without any pronumerals.

Now you try

a List the individual terms in the expression 4q + 10r + s + 2t.
b State the coefficient of each pronumeral in 4q + 10r + s + 2t.
c Give an example of an expression with three terms, in which the coefficient of a is larger than
the coefficient of b but is smaller than the constant term.

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 278 Chapter 5 Algebra

Example 2 Writing expressions from word descriptions

Write an expression for each of the following.

a 5 more than k b 3 less than m
c the sum of a and b d double the value of x
e the product of c and d

SOLUTION EXPLANATION
a k+5 5 must be added to k to get 5 more than k.

b m−3 3 is subtracted from m.

c a+b a and b are added to obtain their sum.

d 2 × x or 2x x is multiplied by 2. The multiplication sign is

optional.

e c × d or cd c and d are multiplied to obtain their product.

Now you try

Write an expression for each of the following.
a 10 more than p b The product of a and b
c Triple the value of k d Half the value of z
e 4 less than b

Example 3 Expressions involving more than one operation

Write an expression for each of the following without using the × or ÷ symbols.
a p is halved, then 4 is added
b the sum of x and y is taken and then divided by 7
c the sum of x and one-seventh of y
d 5 is subtracted from k and the result is tripled

SOLUTION EXPLANATION
p
a +4 p is divided by 2, then 4 is added.
2
x+y
b (x + y) ÷ 7 = x and y are added. This whole expression is divided by 7.
7
By writing the result as a fraction, the brackets are no longer
needed.

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 5A Introduction to algebra 279

y 1 y
c x+ or x + y x is added to one-seventh of y, which is .
7 7 7
d (k − 5) × 3 = 3(k − 5) 5 subtracted from k gives the expression k − 5. Brackets must
be used to multiply the whole expression by 3.

Now you try

Write an expression for each of the following without using the × or ÷ symbols.
a m is tripled and then 5 is added.
b the sum of a and b is halved
c 3 is subtracted from the product of p and q
d 5 less than m is multiplied by 7

Exercise 5A
FLUENCY 1, 2, 3–4(1/2) 2, 3–5(1/2) 3–5(1/2)

Example 1 1 a List the individual terms in the expression 2x + 3y + z.

b State the coefficient of each pronumeral in the expression 2x + 3y + z.
c Give an example of an expression with exactly four terms, one of which is a constant term.

Example 1 2 For each of the following expressions, state:

i the number of terms; and
ii the coefficient of n.
a 17n + 24
b 31 − 27a + 15n
c 15nw + 21n + 15
4
d 15a − 32b + 2n + xy
3
e n + 51
d
f 5bn − 12 + + 12n
5

Example 2 3 Write an expression for each of the following without using the × or ÷ symbols.
a 1 more than x
b the sum of k and 5
c double the value of u
d 4 lots of y
e half of p
f one-third of q
g 12 less than r
h the product of n and 9
i t is subtracted from 10
j y is divided by 8

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 280 Chapter 5 Algebra

Example 3 4 Write an expression for each of the following without using the × or ÷ symbols.
a 5 is added to x, then the result is doubled.
b a is tripled, then 4 is added.
c k is multiplied by 8, then 3 is subtracted.
d 3 is subtracted from k, then the result is multiplied by 8.
e The sum of x and y is multiplied by 6.
f x is multiplied by 7 and the result is halved.
g p is halved and then 2 is added.
h The product of x and y is subtracted from 12.

5 Describe each of these expressions in words.

a 7x
b a+b
c (x + 4) × 2
d 5 − 3a

PROBLEM-SOLVING 6, 7 7–9 7–10

6 Nicholas buys 10 lolly bags from a supermarket.

a If there are 7 lollies in each bag, how many lollies does he buy in total?
b If there are n lollies in each bag, how many lollies does he buy in total? (Hint: Write an expression
involving n.)

7 Mikayla is paid $x per hour at her job. Write an expression for each of the following amounts (in $).
a How much does Mikayla earn if she works 8 hours?
b If Mikayla gets a pay rise of $3 per hour, what is her new hourly wage?
c If Mikayla works for 8 hours at the increased hourly rate, how much does she earn?

8 Recall that there are 100 centimetres in 1 metre and 1000 metres in 1 kilometre. Write expressions for
each of the following.
a How many metres are there in x km?
b How many centimetres are there in x metres?
c How many centimetres are there in x km?

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 5A Introduction to algebra 281

9 A group of people go out to a restaurant, and the total

amount they must pay is $A. They decide to split the
bill equally. Write expressions to answer the following
questions.
a If there are 4 people in the group, how much do they
each pay?
b If there are n people in the group, how much do they
each pay?
c One of the n people has a voucher that reduces the
total bill by $20. How much does each person pay now?
a+b
10 There are many different ways of describing the expression in words. One way is:
4
‘The sum of a and b is divided by 4.’ What is another way?

REASONING 11 11, 13 12, 13

11 If x is a whole number between 10 and 99, classify each of these statements as true or false.
a x must be smaller than 2 × x.
b x must be smaller than x + 2.
c x − 3 must be greater than 10.
d 4 × x must be an even number.
e 3 × x must be an odd number.

12 If b is an even number greater than 3, classify each of these statements as true or false.
a b + 1 must be even.
b b + 2 could be odd.
c 5 + b could be greater than 10.
d 5b must be greater than b.

13 If c is a number between 10 and 99, sort the following in ascending order (i.e. smallest to largest):
3c, 2c, c − 4, c ÷ 2, 3c + 5, 4c − 2, c + 1, c × c.

ENRICHMENT: Many words compressed – – 14

14 One advantage of writing expressions in symbols rather than words is that it takes up less space.
For instance, ‘twice the value of the sum of x and 5’ uses eight words and can be written as 2(x + 5).
Give an example of a worded expression that uses more than 10 words and then write it as a
mathematical expression.

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 282 Chapter 5 Algebra

5B Substituting and evaluating

Learning intentions
• To understand that pronumerals can be replaced with numbers
• To be able to substitute numbers for pronumerals
• To be able to evaluate an expression using order of operations once all pronumeral values are known

Evaluation of expressions involves replacing pronumerals (like x and y) with numbers and obtaining a
single number as a result. For example, we can evaluate 4 + x when x is 11, to get 15.

LESSON STARTER Sum to 10

The pronumerals x and y could stand for any number.

• What numbers could x and y stand for if you know

that x + y must equal 10? Try to list as many pairs as
possible.
• If x + y must equal 10, what values could 3x + y equal?
Find the largest and smallest values.

KEY IDEAS
■ To evaluate an expression or to substitute values means to replace each pronumeral in an
expression with a number to obtain a final value. For example, if x = 3 and y = 8, then x + 2y
evaluated gives 3 + 2 × 8 = 19.

■ A term like 4a means 4 × a. When substituting a number we must consider the multiplication
operation, since two numbers written as 42 is very different from the product 4 × 2.

■ Once an expression contains no pronumerals, evaluate using the normal order of operations seen
in Chapter 1:
• brackets
• multiplication and division from left to right
• addition and subtraction from left to right.
For example: (4 + 3) × 2 − 20 ÷ 4 + 2 = 7 × 2 − 20 ÷ 4 + 2
= 14 − 5 + 2
=9+2
= 11

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 5B Substituting and evaluating 283

BUILDING UNDERSTANDING
1 Use the correct order of operations to
evaluate the following.
a 4+2×5
b 7−3×2
c 3×6−2×4
d (7 − 3) × 2
2 What number would you get if you replaced
b with 5 in the expression 8 + b?

3 What number is obtained when x = 3 is

substituted into the expression 5 × x? Engineers, welders and metal workers regularly
substitute values into formulas. A circular steel plate, used
4 What is the result of evaluating 10 − u if when constructing a large airduct, can have an area of:
A = πr 2 = π × 0.72 = 1.5 m2 (using one decimal place).
u is 7?

5 Calculate the value of 12 + b if:

a b=5
b b=8
c b = 60
d b=0

Example 4 Substituting a pronumeral

Given that t = 5, evaluate:

10
a t+7 b 8t c +4−t
t

SOLUTION EXPLANATION
a t+7=5+7 Replace t with 5 and then evaluate the expression, which
= 12 now contains no pronumerals.

b 8t = 8 × t Insert × where it was previously implied, then substitute

=8×5 5 for t. If the multiplication sign is not included, we might
= 40 get a completely incorrect answer of 85.

10 10
c +4−t= +4−5 Replace all occurrences of t with 5 before evaluating. Note
t 5
= 2+4−5 that the division (10 ÷ 5) is calculated before the addition
= 1 and subtraction.

Now you try

Given that u = 3, evaluate:
12
a 4u b 8−u c 2u + −3
u

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 284 Chapter 5 Algebra

Example 5 Substituting multiple pronumerals

Substitute x = 4 and y = 7 to evaluate these expressions.

a 5x + y + 8 b 80 − (2xy + y)

SOLUTION EXPLANATION
a 5x + y + 8 = 5 × x + y + 8 Insert the implied multiplication sign between 5
=5×4+7+8 and x before substituting the values for x and y.
= 20 + 7 + 8
= 35
b 80 − (2xy + y) = 80 − (2 × x × y + y) Insert the multiplication signs, and remember
= 80 − (2 × 4 × 7 + 7) the order in which to evaluate.
= 80 − (56 + 7) Note that both occurrences of y are replaced
= 80 − 63 with 7.
= 17

Now you try

Substitute p = 3 and q = 10 to evaluate these expressions.
a 4p − q + 2 b pq + 3 × (q − 2p)

Example 6 Substituting with powers and roots

If p = 4 and t = 5, find the value of:

a 3p2 b t2 + p3 c √p2 + 32

SOLUTION EXPLANATION
a 3p2 =3×p×p Note that 3p2 means 3 × p × p not (3 × p) 2.
=3×4×4
= 48
b t2 + p3 = 52 + 43 t is replaced with 5, and p is replaced with 4.
= 5×5+4×4×4 Remember that 43 means 4 × 4 × 4.
= 25 + 64
= 89
c √p2 + 32 = √42 + 32
= √25 Recall that the square root of 25 must be 5
=5 because 5 × 5 = 25.

Now you try

If x = 3 and y = 8, find the value of:
a 4x2 b x3 + y2 c √102 − y2

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 5B Substituting and evaluating 285

Exercise 5B
FLUENCY 1, 2–5(1/2) 2–6(1/2) 2–4(1/3), 5–6(1/2)

Example 4 1 a Given that t = 2, evaluate:

6
i t+3 ii 7t iii +2
t
b Given that x = 7, evaluate:
14
i x−3 ii −1 iii 3x + 4 − x
x
Example 4 2 If x = 5, evaluate each of the following. Set out your solution in a manner similar to that shown in
Example 4.
a x+3 b x×2 c 14 − x
d 2x + 4 e 3x + 2 − x f 13 − 2x
20
g 2(x + 2) + x h 30 − (4x + 1) i +3
x
10 x+7 10 − x
j (x + 5) × k l
x 4 x
m 7x + 3(x − 1) n 40 − 3x − x o x + x(x + 1)
30 6(3x − 8)
p + 2x(x + 3) q 100 − 4(3 + 4x) r
x x+2

Example 5 3 Substitute a = 2 and b = 3 into each of these expressions and evaluate.

a 2a + 4 b 3a − 2 c a+b d 3a + b
e 5a − 2b f 7ab + b g ab − 4 + b h 2 × (3a + 2b)
12 6 ab 100
i 100 − (10a + 10b) j + k +b l
a b 3 a+b

Example 5 4 Evaluate the expression 5x + 2y when:

a x = 3 and y = 6
b x = 4 and y = 1
c x = 7 and y = 3
d x = 0 and y = 4
e x = 2 and y = 0
f x = 10 and y = 10

5 Copy and complete each of these tables.

a
n 1 2 3 4 5 6
n+4 5 8

b x 1 2 3 4 5 6
12 − x 9

c b 1 2 3 4 5 6
2(b − 1)

d q 1 2 3 4 5 6
10q − q

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 286 Chapter 5 Algebra

Example 6 6 Evaluate each of the following, given that a = 9, b = 3 and c = 5.

a
a 3c2 b 5b2 c a2 − 33 d 2b2 + − 2c
3
2b3
e √a + √3ab f √b2 + 42 g 24 + h (2c) 2 − a2
6

PROBLEM-SOLVING 7 7, 9 8, 9

7 A number is substituted for b in the expression 7 + b and gives the result 12.

What is the value of b?

8 A whole number is substituted for x in the expression 3x − 1. If the result is a two-digit number, what
value might x have? Try to describe all the possible answers.

9 Copy and complete the table.

x 5 9 12
x+6 11 7
4x 20 24 28

REASONING 10 10 10, 11

10 Assume x and y are two numbers, where xy = 24.

a What values could x and y equal if they are whole numbers? Try to list as many as possible.
b What values could x and y equal if they can be decimals, fractions or whole numbers?

11 Dugald substitutes different whole numbers into the expression 5 × (a + a). He notices that the result
always ends in the digit 0. Try a few values and explain why this pattern occurs.

ENRICHMENT: Missing numbers – – 12

 opy and complete the following table. Note that x and y are whole numbers (0, 1, 2, 3, …) for
12 a C
this table.
x 5 10 7
y 3 4 5
x+y 9 14 7
x−y 2 3 8
xy 40 10 0

b If x and y are two numbers where x + y and x × y are equal, what values might x and y have?

Try to find at least three (they do not have to be whole numbers).

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 5C Equivalent expressions 287

5C Equivalent expressions
Learning intentions
• To know what it means for two expressions to be equivalent
• To be able to determine whether two expressions are equivalent using substitution

Like using words from a language, there are often many ways in algebra to express the same thing. For
example, we can write ‘the sum of x and 4’ as x + 4 or 4 + x, or even x + 1 + 1 + 1 + 1.
No matter what number x is, x + 4 and 4 + x will always be equal. We say that the expressions x + 4 and
4 + x are equivalent because of this.
By substituting different numbers for the pronumerals it is possible to see whether two expressions are
equivalent. Consider the four expressions in this table.

3a + 5 2a + 6 7a + 5 − 4a a+a+6
a=0 5 6 5 6
a=1 8 8 8 8
a=2 11 10 11 10
a=3 14 12 14 12
a=4 17 14 17 14

From this table it becomes apparent that 3a + 5 and 7a + 5 − 4a are equivalent, and that 2a + 6 and
a + a + 6 are equivalent.

When identical houses are built, a window supplier

can multiply the number of windows, w, ordered for
one house by the number of houses. This is equivalent
to adding all the window orders. E.g. for four houses,
4w = w + w + w + w .

LESSON STARTER Equivalent expressions

Consider the expression 2a + 4.

• Write as many different expressions as

possible that are equivalent to 2a + 4.
• How many equivalent expressions
are there?
• Try to give a logical explanation for why This collection of pronumerals and numbers can be arranged into
many different equivalent expressions.
2a + 4 is equivalent to 4 + a × 2.
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 288 Chapter 5 Algebra

KEY IDEAS
■ Two expressions are called equivalent when they are always equal, regardless of what numbers
are substituted for the pronumerals.
For example:
• x + 12 is equivalent to 12 + x, because the order in which numbers are added is not important.
• 3k is equivalent to k + k + k, because multiplying by a whole number is the same as adding
repeatedly.

■ The rules of algebra are used to prove that two expressions are equivalent, but a table of values
can be helpful to test whether expressions are likely to be equivalent.

BUILDING UNDERSTANDING
1 a State the missing numbers x=0 x=1 x=2 x=3
in this table. 2x + 2
b State the missing
(x + 1) × 2
word: 2x + 2 and
(x + 1) × 2 are __________ expressions.

2 a State the missing numbers in this table. x=0 x=1 x=2 x=3
b Are 5x + 3 and 6x + 3 equivalent 5x + 3
expressions?
6x + 3

Example 7 Equivalent expressions

Which two of these expressions are equivalent: 3x + 4, 8 − x, 2x + 4 + x?

SOLUTION EXPLANATION
3x + 4 and 2x + 4 + x are equivalent. By drawing a table of values, we can see straight
away that 3x + 4 and 8 − x are not equivalent, since
they differ for x = 2.

x=1 x=2 x=3

3x + 4 7 10 13
8−x 7 6 5
2x + 4 + x 7 10 13

3x + 4 and 2x + 4 + x are equal for all values, so

they are equivalent.

Now you try

Which two of these expressions are equivalent: 2a + 6, 6a + 2, (a + 3) × 2, 8a?

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 5C Equivalent expressions 289

Exercise 5C
FLUENCY 1–4 2–4 3, 4

Example 7 1 Pick the two expressions which are equivalent.

a 2x + 3, 2x − 3, x + 3 + x
b 5x − 2, 3x − 2 + 2x, 2x + 3x + 2

Example 7 2 For each of the following, choose a pair of equivalent expressions.

a 4x, 2x + 4, x + 4 + x
b 5a, 4a + a, 3 + a
c 2k + 2, 3 + 2k, 2(k + 1)
d b + b, 3b, 4b − 2b

3 Match up the equivalent expressions below.

a 3x + 2x A 6 − 3x
b 4 − 3x + 2 B 2x + 4x + x
c 2x + 5 + x C 5x
d x+x−5+x D 4−x
e 7x E 3x + 5
f 4 − 3x + 2x F 3x − 5

4 Demonstrate that 6x + 5 and 4x + 5 + 2x are equivalent by completing the table.

6x + 5 4x + 5 + 2x
x=1
x=2
x=3
x=4

PROBLEM-SOLVING 5 5, 6 6, 7

5 Write two different expressions that are equivalent to 4x + 2.

6 The rectangle shown below has a perimeter given by w + l + w + l. Write an equivalent expression for
the perimeter.
w

l l

7 There are many expressions that are equivalent to 3a + 5b + 2a − b + 4a.

Write an equivalent expression with as few terms as possible.

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 290 Chapter 5 Algebra

REASONING 8 8, 9 9–11

8 The expressions a + b and b + a are equivalent and only contain two terms. How many expressions
are equivalent to a + b + c and contain only three terms? (Hint: Rearrange the pronumerals.)

9 Prove that no pair of these four expressions are equivalent: 4 + x, 4x, x − 4, x ÷ 4.

10 Generalise each of the following patterns in numbers to give two equivalent expressions. The first one
has been done for you.
a Observation: 3 + 5 = 5 + 3 and 2 + 7 = 7 + 2 and 4 + 11 = 11 + 4.
Generalised: The two expressions x + y and y + x are equivalent.
b Observation: 2 × 5 = 5 × 2 and 11 × 5 = 5 × 11 and 3 × 12 = 12 × 3.
c Observation: 4 × (10 + 3) = 4 × 10 + 4 × 3 and 8 × (100 + 5) = 8 × 100 + 8 × 5.
d Observation: 100 − (4 + 6) = 100 − 4 − 6 and 70 − (10 + 5) = 70 − 10 − 5.
e Observation: 20 − (4 − 2) = 20 − 4 + 2 and 15 − (10 − 3) = 15 − 10 + 3.
f Observation: 100 ÷ 5 ÷ 10 = 100 ÷ (5 × 10) and 30 ÷ 2 ÷ 3 = 30 ÷ (2 × 3).

 how that the expression 4 × (a + 2) is equivalent to 8 + 4a using a table of values for a between
11 a S
1 and 4.
b Write an expression using brackets that is equivalent to 10 + 5a.
c Write an expression without brackets that is equivalent to 6 × (4 + a).

ENRICHMENT: Thinking about equivalence – – 12, 13

12 3a + 5b is an expression containing two terms. List two expressions containing three terms that are
equivalent to 3a + 5b.

13 Three expressions are given: expression A, expression B and expression C.

a If expressions A and B are equivalent, and expressions B and C are equivalent, does this mean that
expressions A and C are equivalent? Try to prove your answer.
b If expressions A and B are not equivalent, and expressions B and C are not equivalent, does this
mean that expressions A and C are not equivalent? Try to prove your answer.

Each shape above is made from three identically-sized tiles of width, w, and
length, l. They all have the same area. Do any of the shapes have the same
perimeter?

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 5D Like terms 291

5D Like terms
Learning intentions
• To know what like terms are
• To be able to identify like terms within an expression
• To be able to simplify expressions by combining like terms

Whenever we have terms with exactly the same

pronumeral parts, they are called ‘like terms’ and
can be collected. For example, 3x + 5x can be
simplified to 8x. If the two terms do not have exactly
the same pronumerals, they must be kept separate;
for example, 3x + 5y cannot be simplified – it must
be left as it is.

Recall from arithmetic that numbers can be

multiplied in any order (e.g. 5 × 3 = 3 × 5). This
means pronumerals can appear in a different order
A vet has 3 rows of animal cages with 4 cages per row.
within a term and give equivalent expressions (e.g.
Each cage is L cm by H cm. The total length of the cages
ab and ba are equivalent). in centimetres is L + L + L + L = 4L and total height in
centimetres is H + H + H = 3H . If another row is added,
the height is 3H + H = 4H .

LESSON STARTER Simplifying expressions

• Try to find a simpler expression that is equivalent to
1a + 2b + 3a + 4b + 5a + 6b + … + 19a + 20b
• What is the longest possible expression that is equivalent to 10a + 20b + 30c? Assume that all
coefficients must be whole numbers greater than zero.
• Compare your expressions to see who has the longest one.

KEY IDEAS
■ Like terms are terms containing exactly the same pronumerals, although not necessarily in the
same order.
• 5ab and 3ab are like terms.
• 4a and 7b are not like terms.
• 2acb and 4bac are like terms.

■ Like terms can be combined within an expression to create a simpler expression that is equivalent.
For example, 5ab + 3ab can be simplified to 8ab.

■ If two terms are not like terms (such as 4x and 5y), they can still be added to get an expression like
4x + 5y, but this expression cannot be simplified further.

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 292 Chapter 5 Algebra

BUILDING UNDERSTANDING
1 For each of the following terms, state all the pronumerals that occur in it.
a 4xy b 3abc c 2k d pq
2 State the missing words or expressions to make the sentences true. More than one answer might be
possible.
a 3x and 5x are _______________ terms.
b 4x and 3y are not ____________ ____________.
c 4xy and 4yx are like ____________.
d 4a and ____________ are like terms.
e x + x + 7 and 2x + 7 are ____________ expressions.
f 3x + 2x + 4 can be written in an equivalent way as ____________.

Example 8 Identifying like terms

Classify the following pairs as like terms or not like terms.

a 3x and 2x b 3a and 3b c 2ab and 5ba
d 4k and k e 2a and 4ab f 7ab and 9aba

SOLUTION EXPLANATION
a 3x and 2x are like terms. The pronumerals are the same.

b 3a and 3b are not like terms. The pronumerals are different.

c 2ab and 5ba are like terms. The pronumerals are the same, even though they are
written in a different order (one a and one b).

d 4k and k are like terms. The pronumerals are the same.

e 2a and 4ab are not like terms. The pronumerals are not exactly the same (the first term
contains only a and the second term has a and b).

f 7ab and 9aba are not like terms. The pronumerals are not exactly the same (the first term
contains one a and one b, but the second term contains
two copies of a and one b).

Now you try

Classify the following pairs as like terms or not like terms.
a 4x and 3y b 7a and 9a c 3xy and 4xyx
d 4j and j e 8bc and 9cb f 9pq and 10p

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 5D Like terms 293

Example 9 Simplifying using like terms

Simplify the following by collecting like terms.

a 7b + 2 + 3b b 12d − 4d + d c 5 + 12a + 4b − 2 − 3a
d 13a + 8b + 2a − 5b − 4a e 12uv + 7v − 3vu + 3v

SOLUTION EXP LANATION

a 7b + 2 + 3b = 10b + 2 7b and 3b are like terms, so they are added. They cannot be
combined with the term 2 because it is not ‘like’ 7b or 3b.

b 12d − 4d + d = 9d All the terms here are like terms. Remember that d means
1d when combining them.

c 5 + 12a + 4b − 2 − 3a 12a and 3a are like terms. We subtract 3a because it has

= 12a − 3a + 4b + 5 − 2 a minus sign in front of it. We can also combine the 5 and
= 9a + 4b + 3 the 2 because they are like terms.

d 13a + 8b + 2a − 5b − 4a Combine like terms, remembering to subtract any term that

= 13a + 2a − 4a + 8b − 5b has a minus sign in front of it.
= 11a + 3b

e 12uv + 7v − 3vu + 3v Combine like terms. Remember that 12uv and 3vu are
= 12uv − 3vu + 7v + 3v like terms (i.e. they have the same pronumerals), so
= 9uv + 10v 12uv − 3uv = 9uv.

Now you try

Simplify the following by collecting like terms.
a 3a + 4 + 12a b 10q + 3q − 9q c 4x + 13y + 2x + 3 + 5y
d 9a + 4b − 3a − 3b + a e 10uv + 3u − 2vu + 7u + 2v

Exercise 5D
FLUENCY 1, 2−4(1/2) 2−4(1/2) 2−4(1/3)

Example 8 1 Classify the following pairs as like terms (L) or not like terms (N).
a 6x and 3x b 5a and 7b c 4xy and yx

Example 8 2 Classify the following pairs as like terms (L) or not like terms (N).
a 7a and 4b b 3a and 10a c 18x and 32x d 4a and 4b
e 7 and 10b f x and 4x g 5x and 5 h 12ab and 4ab
i 7cd and 12cd j 3abc and 12abc k 3ab and 2ba l 4cd and 3dce

Example 9 3 Simplify the following by collecting like terms.

a a+a b 3x + 2x c 4b + 3b d 12d − 4d
e 15u − 3u f 14ab − 2ab g 8ab + 3ab h 4xy − 3xy

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 294 Chapter 5 Algebra

Example 9 4 Simplify the following by collecting like terms.

a 2a + a + 4b + b b 5a + 2a + b + 8b c 3x − 2x + 2y + 4y
d 4a + 2 + 3a e 7 + 2b + 5b f 3k − 2 + 3k
g 7f + 4 − 2f + 8 h 4a − 4 + 5b + b i 3x + 7x + 3y − 4x + y
j 10a + 3 + 4b − 2a k 4 + 10h − 3h l 10x + 4x + 31y − y
m 10 + 7y − 3x + 5x + 2y n 11a + 4 − 3a + 9 o 3b + 4b + c + 5b − c
p 7ab + 4 + 2ab q 9xy + 2x − 3xy + 3x r 2cd + 5dc − 3d + 2c
s 5uv + 12v + 4uv − 5v t 7pq + 2p + 4qp − q u 7ab + 32 − ab + 4

PROBLEM-SOLVING 5, 6 7, 8 6, 7, 8(1/2)

5 Ravi and Marissa each work for n hours per week. Ravi earns $27 per hour and Marissa earns
$31 per hour.
a Write an expression for the amount Ravi earns in one week (in dollars).
b Write an expression for the amount Marissa earns in one week (in dollars).
c Write a simplified expression for the total amount Ravi and Marissa earn in one week (in dollars).

6 The length of the line segment shown could be expressed as a + a + 3 + a + 1.

a a 3 a 1
a Write the length in the simplest form.
b What is the length of the segment if a is equal to 5?

7 Let x represent the number of marbles in a standard-sized bag. Xavier bought 4 bags and Cameron
bought 7 bags. Write simplified expressions for:
a the number of marbles Xavier has
b the number of marbles Cameron has
c the total number of marbles that Xavier and Cameron have
d the number of extra marbles that Cameron has compared to Xavier

8 Simplify the following expressions as much as possible.

a 3xy + 4xy + 5xy b 4ab + 5 + 2ab c 5ab + 3ba + 2ab
d 10xy − 4yx + 3 e 10 − 3xy + 8xy + 4 f 3cde + 5ecd + 2ced
g 4 + x + 4xy + 2xy + 5x h 12ab + 7 − 3ab + 2 i 3xy − 2y + 4yx

REASONING 9 9 10

9 a Demonstrate, using a table of values, that 3x + 2x is equivalent to 5x.

b Prove that 3x + 2y is not equivalent to 5xy.

10 a Demonstrate that 5x + 4 − 2x is equivalent to 3x + 4.

b Prove that 5x + 4 − 2x is not equivalent to 7x + 4.
c Prove that 5x + 4 − 2x is not equivalent to 7x − 4.

ENRICHMENT: How many rearrangements? – – 11

11 The expression a + 3b + 2a is equivalent to 3a + 3b.

a List two other expressions with three terms that are equivalent to 3a + 3b.
b How many expressions, consisting of exactly three terms added together, are equivalent to 3a + 3b?
All coefficients must be whole numbers greater than 0.
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 Progress quiz 295

1 For the expression 7a + 4b + c + 9, answer the following.

5A
a State the number of terms. b List the individual terms.
c State the coefficient of b. d What is the constant term?

Progress quiz
2 Write an expression for each of the following.
5A
a the product of m and p b the sum of a and k
c 8 more than t d 4 less than w

3 Write an expression for each of the following without using the ÷ or × symbols.
5A
a m is halved, then 7 is added.
b 7 is added to m and then the result is halved.
c The sum of a and k is taken and then divided by 3.
d The sum of a and one-third of k.
e 12 is subtracted from d and the result is tripled.
f d is tripled and 12 is subtracted from the result.

4 If x = 4, evaluate each of the following.

5B
20
a 3x + 7 b +2−x c 18 − (2x + 1)
x

5 Substitute a = 5 and b = 2 into each of these expressions and evaluate.

5B
a 3a + b + 7 b 20 − (a + 2b)
35
c d 5 + a2 − 2b2
a+b
e √a2 − 16

6 Which two of the following expressions are equivalent?

5C
3a + 4, 4a + 3, 4 + 3a, 7a

7 Classify the following pairs as like terms (L) or not like terms (N).
5D
a 3a and 8a b 3x and 3xy
c 6 and 6a d 4mp and 5pm

8 Simplify the following by collecting like terms.

5D
a 7a + 2b + 5 + a + 3b b 2cd + 4c + 8d + 5dc − c + 4

9 Archie has two part-time jobs each

5C
paying $8 per hour. He works x
hours at one job and y hours at
the other. Write two equivalent
expressions for the total amount of
money, in dollars, that he earns.

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 296 Chapter 5 Algebra

5E Multiplying and dividing expressions

Learning intentions
• To know the different ways multiplication and division can be written
• To be able to simplify expressions with multiplication
• To be able to simplify expressions with division

To multiply a number by a pronumeral, we have already seen we can write them next to each other. For
example, 7a means 7 × a, and 5abc means 5 × a × b × c. The order in which numbers or pronumerals are
multiplied is unimportant, so 5 × a × b × c = a × 5 × c × b = c × a × 5 × b. When writing a product
without × signs, the numbers are written first.

7xy
We write as shorthand for (7xy) ÷ (3xz) .
3xz
10 10 5 × 2 2
We can simplify fractions like by dividing by common factors such as = = .
15 15 5 × 3 3
7xy 7xy 7y
Similarly, common pronumerals can be cancelled in a division like , giving = .
3xz 3xz 3z

LESSON STARTER Rearranging terms

5abc is equivalent to 5bac because the order of multiplication does
5×a×b×c=?
not matter. In what other ways could 5abc be written?

KEY IDEAS
■ a × b is written as ab.

a
■ a ÷ b is written as .
b

■ a × a is written as a2.

■ Because of the commutative property of multiplication (e.g. 2 × 7 = 7 × 2), the order in which
values are multiplied is not important. So 3 × a and a × 3 are equivalent.

■ Because of the associative property of multiplication (e.g. 3 × (5 × 2) and (3 × 5) × 2 are equal),

brackets are not required when only multiplication is used. So 3 × (a × b) and (3 × a) × b are
both written as 3ab.

■ Numbers should be written first in a term and pronumerals are generally written in alphabetical
order. For example, b × 2 × a is written as 2ab.

■ When dividing, any common factor in the numerator and denominator can be cancelled.
24a1b
2a
For example: =
121bc c

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 5E Multiplying and dividing expressions 297

BUILDING UNDERSTANDING
1 Chen claims that 7 × d is equivalent to d × 7.
a If d = 3, find the values of 7 × d and d × 7.
b If d = 5, find the values of 7 × d and d × 7.
c If d = 8, find the values of 7 × d and d × 7.
d Is Chen correct in his claim?
2 Classify each of the following statements as true or false.
a 4 × n can be written as 4n.
b n × 3 can be written as 3n.
c 4 × b can be written as b + 4.
d a × b can be written as ab.
e a × 5 can be written as 50a.
f a × a can be written as 2a.
12 2×6
3 a Simplify the fraction . (Note: This is the same as .)
18 3×6
2000 2 × 1000
b Simplify the fraction . (Note: This is the same as .)
3000 3 × 1000
2a 2×a
c Simplify . (Note: This is the same as .)
3a 3×a

4 Match up these expressions with the correct way to write them.

a 2×u A 3u
5
b 7×u B
u
c 5÷u C 2u
u
d u×3 D
5
e u÷5 E 7u

To tile a shopping mall floor area, a tiler is using rectangular tiles each
L cm by W cm. There are 60 rows of tiles with 40 tiles per row. The tiler
needs enough tile glue for area: A = 60W × 40L = 2400WL cm2.

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 298 Chapter 5 Algebra

Example 10 Simplifying expressions with multiplication

a Write 4 × a × b × c without multiplication signs.

b Simplify 4a × 2b × 3c, giving your final answer without multiplication signs.
c Simplify 3w × 4w.

SOLUTION EXPLANATION
a 4 × a × b × c = 4abc When pronumerals are written next to each
other they are being multiplied.

b 4a × 2b × 3c = 4 × a × 2 × b × 3 × c First insert the missing multiplication signs.

=4×2×3×a×b×c Rearrange to bring the numbers to the front.
= 24abc 4 × 2 × 3 = 24 and a × b × c = abc, giving
the final answer.

c 3w × 4w = 3 × w × 4 × w First insert the missing multiplication signs.

=3×4×w×w Rearrange to bring the numbers to the front.
= 12w2 3 × 4 = 12 and w × w is written as w2.

Now you try

a Write d × 5 × e × f without multiplication signs.
b Simplify 3x × 5y × 2z, giving your final answer without multiplication signs.
c Simplify 2a × 5a

Example 11 Simplifying expressions with division

8ab
a Write (3x + 1) ÷ 5 without a division sign. b Simplify the expression .
12b

SOLUTION EXPLANATION
3x + 1
a (3x + 1) ÷ 5 = The brackets are no longer required as it becomes clear that all
5
of 3x + 1 is being divided by 5.

8ab 8 × a × b
b = Insert multiplication signs to help spot common factors.
12b 12 × b
2×4×a×b 8 and 12 have a common factor of 4.
=
3×4×b
Cancel out the common factors of 4 and b.
2a
=
3

Now you try

12pqr
a Write (3x + 2) ÷ (2x + 1) without a b Simplify the expression .
15pr
division sign.

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 5E Multiplying and dividing expressions 299

Exercise 5E
FLUENCY 1, 2–5(1/2) 2–5(1/2) 3–5(1/3)

Example 10a 1 a Write 2x × y × z without multiplication signs.

Example 10b b Simplify 2x × 3y × 5z, giving your final answer without multiplication signs.
Example 10c c Simplify 5t × 7t.

Example 10a 2 Write each of these expressions without any multiplication signs.
a 2×x b 5×p
c 8×a×b d 3×2×a
e 7×4×f f 5×2×a×b
g 2×b×5 h x×7×z×4

Example 10b,c 3 Simplify these expressions.

a 3a × 12 b 7d × 9
c 2 × 4e d 3 × 5a
e 4a × 3b f 7e × 9g
g 8a × bc h 4d × 7af
i a × 3b × 4c j 2a × 4b × c
k 4d × 3e × 5fg l 2cb × 3a × 4d
m w×w n a×a
o 3d × d p 2k × k
q p × 7p r q × 3q
s 6x × 2x t 9r × 4r

Example 11a 4 Write each expression without a division sign.

a x÷5 b z÷2
c a ÷ 12 d b÷5
e 2÷x f 5÷d
g x÷y h a÷b
i (4x + 1) ÷ 5 j (2x + y) ÷ 5
k (2 + x) ÷ (1 + y) l (x − 5) ÷ (3 + b)

a
Example 11b 5 Simplify the following expressions by dividing by any common factors. Remember that = a.
1
2x 5a 9ab
a b c
5x 9a 4b
2ab 2x 9x
d e f
5a 4 12
10a 30y 4a
g h i
15a 40y 2
21x 4xy 9x
j k l
7x 2x 3xy

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 300 Chapter 5 Algebra

PROBLEM-SOLVING 6, 7 7, 9 7–9

6 Write a simplified expression for the area of the following rectangles. Recall that for rectangles,
Area = width × length.
a k b 6 c 3x

3 4y
x

7 The weight of a single muesli bar is x grams.

a What is the weight of 4 bars? Write an expression.
b If Jamila buys n bars, what is the total weight of her purchase?
c Jamila’s cousin Roland buys twice as many bars as Jamila. What is
the total weight of Roland’s purchase?

8 Five friends go to a restaurant. They split the bill evenly, so each spends
the same amount.
a If the total cost is $100, how much do they each spend?
b If the total cost is $C, how much do they each spend? Write an expression.

9 Replace the question marks with algebraic terms to make these equivalence statements true.
a 4c × ? × b = 12abc
b 2a × 2b × ? = 28abc
14ab
c = 2a
?
12xy
d =x
?
50x
e × y = 5y
?

REASONING 10 10, 11 10, 11

10 The expression 3 × 2p is the same as the expression 2p + 2p + 2p .

(1) (2) (3)
a What is a simpler expression for 2p + 2p + 2p? (Hint: Combine like terms.)
b 3 × 2p is shorthand for 3 × 2 × p. How does this relate to your answer in part a?

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 5E Multiplying and dividing expressions 301

11 The area of the rectangle shown is 3a. The length and width of this rectangle are now doubled.
a Draw the new rectangle, showing its dimensions.
b Write a simplified expression for the area of the new rectangle. a
c Divide the area of the new rectangle by the area of the old rectangle. What do
you notice?
3
d What happens to the area of the original rectangle if you triple both the length
and the width?

ENRICHMENT: Managing powers – – 12

12 The expression a × a can be written as a2 and the expression a × a × a can be written as a3.
a What is 3a2b2 when written in full with multiplication signs?
b Write 7 × x × x × y × y × y without any multiplication signs.
c Simplify 2a × 3b × 4c × 5a × b × 10c × a.
d Simplify 4a2 × 3ab2 × 2c2.

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 302 Chapter 5 Algebra

Applications and problem-solving

The following problems will investigate practical situations drawing upon knowledge and skills
developed throughout the chapter. In attempting to solve these problems, aim to identify the key
information, use diagrams, formulate ideas, apply strategies, make calculations and check and
communicate your solutions.

Comparing printing costs

1 Glenn doesn’t currently own a home printer and looks into the costs of
purchasing a printer, toner cartridges and paper.

Glenn finds out the following information:

• Black and white laser printer (23 pages per minute) = $98
• Toner cartridge (lasts for 1000 pages) = $72
• Reams of paper (500 pages in a ream) = $5

Another option for Glenn is to print at school, but the school charges
10 cents per A4 page of black and white printing.

Glenn is interested in comparing the cost of printing on his home

printer compared to the cost of printing on one of the school’s printers.

a What is the cost of Glenn printing 2000 pages at school over the
course of the year?
b If Glenn wishes to print 2000 pages at home over the course of the year, how many toner
cartridges and how many reams of paper will he need to purchase?
c What will it cost Glenn to buy a printer and print 2000 pages at home?
d What is the total cost of Glenn’s printing at home per page including the cost of the printer?
e What is the total cost of Glenn’s printing at home per page excluding the cost of the printer?
f Do you recommend Glenn prints at home or at school?
g What is the cost of Glenn printing n pages at school?
h What is the cost of Glenn printing n pages at home, excluding the cost of the printer?
i Find a value of n for which it is cheaper to print:
i at home, including the cost of the printer
ii at school, including the cost of the printer.

Calculating walking distance

2 Carmen determines her average stride length by walking a distance of 100 m and taking 125 steps to do so.

Carmen is curious about how far she walks in various time intervals including a whole year.

a What is Carmen’s average stride length? Give your answer in metres and in centimetres.
b Write an expression for the distance in kilometres that Carmen walks in x steps.

Carmen is determined to walk at least 10 000 steps every day.

c How far will Carmen walk on a day when she takes 10 000 steps? Give your answer in metres and
in kilometres.
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 Applications and problem-solving 303

d If Carmen averages 10 000 steps per day over an entire year (non-leap year), how far will Carmen
walk in the year? Give your answer in kilometres.
e How many steps per day would Carmen have to average over the year if she wanted to be able to
say she had walked the ‘length of Australia’, a distance equivalent to walking from Melbourne to
Darwin (3740 km)?
f How many steps per day would Carmen have to average over the year if she wanted to be able to
say she had walked the ‘width of Australia’, a distance equivalent to walking from Perth to Sydney
(3932 km)?
g How many steps per day would a student have to average over a year if they have a stride length of
s metres and want to walk n kilometres?

Earning money from dog-walking

3 Eskander is keen to earn some money from offering to take his neighbours’ dogs for a walk.

Eskander is interested in the total amount of money that can be earned depending on the size of the
fee charge per walk, the duration of the walks and the total number of walks.

Eskander initially thinks he will simply charge $5 per dog walk and writes down the rule M = 5 × w

a What do you think M and

w stand for?
b How much will Eskander earn
from 20 dog walks?

Eskander then thinks that it makes

more sense to charge a different
rate for 20 minute walks and
40 minute walks. He decides to
charge $4 for 20 minute walks and
$8 for 40 minute walks.

c Using a to represent the number

of 20 minute walks, and b to
represent the number of
40 minute walks, write a rule for
the money Eskander will earn.
d How much will Eskander earn from 10 twenty minute walks and 10 forty minute walks?

Eskander realises that he is really charging the same rate per minute for the 20 and 40 minute walks.

e How much does Eskander earn per minute of dog walking? Give your answer in dollars and also in
cents.
f Write an equation for the amount of money Eskander will earn per t minutes of walking.
g Using this new equation, how much will Eskander earn from 600 minutes of walking? Check if this
is the same amount as your answer to part d.

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 304 Chapter 5 Algebra

5F Expanding brackets EXTENDING

Learning intentions
• To understand what it means to expand brackets
• To be able to expand brackets using repeated terms or rectangle areas
• To be able to expand brackets using the distributive law

We have already seen that there are different ways

of writing two equivalent expressions. For example,
4a + 2a is equivalent to 2 × 3a, even though they
look different.

Note that 3(7 + a) = 3 × (7 + a), which is equivalent

to 3 lots of 7 + a.

So, 3(7 + a) = 7 + a + 7 + a + 7 + a
= 21 + 3a

It is sometimes useful to have an expression that is

A builder designs a low-set house, 15 m long by 10 m
written with brackets, like 3 × (7 + a) , and sometimes wide. Customers can select the option of adding a
it is useful to have an expression that is written deck of variable width, x m. The total floor area is:
without brackets, like 21 + 3a. A = 15(10 + x ) = 150 + 15x
(house) (deck)

LESSON STARTER Total area 7

a

What is the total area of the rectangle shown at right? Try to write two
3
expressions, only one of which includes brackets.

KEY IDEAS
■ Expanding (or eliminating) brackets involves writing an equivalent expression without brackets.
This can be done by writing the bracketed portion a number of times or by multiplying each term.
2(a + b) = a + b + a + b or 2(a + b) = 2 × a + 2 × b
= 2a + 2b = 2a + 2b

■ To eliminate brackets, you can use the distributive law, which states that:

a(b + c) = ab + ac and a(b − c) = ab − ac

■ The distributive law is used in arithmetic.

For example:

5 × 27 = 5(20 + 7)
= 5 × 20 + 5 × 7
= 100 + 35
= 135
■ The process of removing brackets using the distributive law is called expansion.

■ When expanding, every term inside the brackets must be multiplied by the term outside the brackets.

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 5F Expanding brackets 305

BUILDING UNDERSTANDING
1 The expression 3(a + 2) can be written as (a + 2) + (a + 2) + (a + 2).
a Simplify this expression by collecting like terms.
b State 2(x + y) in full without brackets and simplify the result.
c State 4(p + 1) in full without brackets and simplify the result.
d State 3(4a + 2b) in full without brackets and simplify the result.
x 3
2 The area of the rectangle shown can be written as 4(x + 3).
a What is the area of the green rectangle?
b What is the area of the red rectangle? 4
c State the total area as an expression, without using brackets.
3 State the missing parts in the following calculations which use the distributive law.

a 3 × 21 = 3(20 + 1)
= 3 × 20 + 3 × 1
= ____ + ____
= _____

b 7 × 34 = 7 × (30 + 4)
= 7 × ____ + 7 × ____
= ____ + ____
= _____

c 5 × 19 = 5 × (20 − 1)
= 5 × ____ − 5 × ____
= ____ − ____
= _____

4 a 
State the missing results in the following table. Remember to follow the rules for correct order
of operations.

(4x + 3) 4x + 12
x=1 = 4(1 + 3) = 4(1) + 12
= 4(4) = 4 + 12
= 16 = 16
x=2
x=3
x=4

b State the missing word. The expressions 4(x + 3) and 4x + 12 are __________.

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 306 Chapter 5 Algebra

Example 12 Expanding brackets using rectangle areas

Write two equivalent expressions for the area of each rectangle shown, only one of which includes
brackets.
a 5 x b 12 c b 2

2 a a

3 7

SOLUTION EXPLANATION
a Using brackets: 2(5 + x) The whole rectangle has height 2 and width 5 + x.

Without brackets: 10 + 2x The smaller rectangles have area 2 × 5 = 10 and

2 × x = 2x, so they are added.

b Using brackets: 12(a + 3) The dimensions of the whole rectangle are 12 and a + 3.
Note that, by convention, we do not write (a + 3)12.

Without brackets: 12a + 36 The smaller rectangles have area 12 × a = 12a and
12 × 3 = 36.

c Using brackets: (a + 7)(b + 2) The whole rectangle has height a + 7 and width b + 2.
Note that brackets are used to ensure we are multiplying
the entire height by the entire width.

Without brackets: ab + 2a + 7b + 14 The diagram can be split into four rectangles, with areas
ab, 2a, 7b and 14.

Now you try

Write two equivalent expressions for the area of each rectangle shown, only one of which includes
brackets.
a b c
r 4
6

a
7 x 6 b
5

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 5F Expanding brackets 307

Example 13 Expanding using the distributive law

Expand the following expressions.

a 5(x + 3)
b 8(a − 4)
c 3(5a + 2)
d 5a(3p − 7q)

SOLUTION EXPLANATION

a 5(x + 3) = 5 × x + 5 × 3 Use the distributive law: 5(x + 3) = 5x + 5 × 3

= 5x + 15 Simplify the result.

b 8(a − 4) = 8 × a − 8 × 4 Use the distributive law with subtraction:

= 8a − 32 8(a − 4) = 8a − 8 × 4

Simplify the result.

c 3(5a + 2) = 3 × 5a + 3 × 2 Use the distributive law:

= 15a + 6 3(5a + 2) = 3 × 5a + 3 × 2

Simplify the result, remembering that

3 × 5a = 15a.

d 5a(3p − 7q) = 5a × 3p − 5a × 7q Expanding: 5a(3p − 7q) = 5a × 3p − 5a × 7q

= 15ap − 35aq Simplify the result, remembering that
5a × 3p = 15ap and 5a × 7q = 35aq.

Now you try

Expand the following expressions.
a 4(b + 7)
b 9(k − 5)
c 5(2p + 5)
d 9x(3z − 2)

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 308 Chapter 5 Algebra

Exercise 5F
FLUENCY 1, 2, 3–4(1/2) 2, 3–5(1/2) 3–5(1/3)

Example 12 1 Write two equivalent expressions for the area of each rectangle shown, only one of which includes
brackets.
a 4 x b 2 c b 3
a
2 a
3

Example 12 2 For the following rectangles, write two equivalent expressions for the area.
a x 4 b 8 c 3 a
3
z
12
b
9

Example 13a,b 3 Use the distributive law to expand the following.

a 6(y + 8) b 7(l + 4)
c 8(s + 7) d 4(2 + a)
e 7(x + 5) f 3(6 + a)
g 9(9 − x) h 5( j − 4)
i 8(y − 8) j 8(e − 7)
k 6(e − 3) l 10(8 − y)

Example 13c 4 Use the distributive law to expand the following.

a 10(6g − 7) b 5(3e + 8)
c 5(7w + 10) d 5(2u + 5)
e 7(8x − 2) f 3(9v − 4)
g 7(q − 7) h 4(5c − v)
i 2(2u + 6) j 6(8l + 8)
k 5(k − 10) l 9(o + 7)

Example 13d 5 Use the distributive law to expand the following.

a 6i(t − v) b 2d(v + m)
c 5c(2w − t) d 6e(s + p)
e d(x + 9s) f 5a(2x + 3v)
g 5j(r + 7p) h i(n + 4w)
i 8d(s − 3t) j f(2u + v)
k 7k(2v + 5y) l 4e(m + 10y)
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 5F Expanding brackets 309

PROBLEM-SOLVING 6, 7 7, 8 7–9

6 Write an expression for each of the following and then expand it.
a A number, x, has 3 added to it and the result is multiplied by 5.
b A number, b, has 6 added to it and the result is doubled.
c A number, z, has 4 subtracted from it and the result is multiplied by 3.
d A number, y, is subtracted from 10 and the result is multiplied by 7.

7 In a school classroom there is one teacher as well as an unknown number of boys and girls.
a If the number of boys is b and the number of girls is g, write an expression for the total number
of people in the classroom, including the teacher.
b The teacher and all the students are each wearing two socks. Write two different expressions
for the total number of socks being worn, one with brackets and one without.

8 When expanded, 4(3x + 6y) gives 12x + 24y. Find two other expressions that expand to 12x + 24y.

9 The distance around a rectangle is given by the expression 2(l + w), where l is the length and w is the
width. What is an equivalent expression for this distance?

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 310 Chapter 5 Algebra

REASONING 10 10, 11 11, 12

10 Use a diagram of a rectangle like that in Building understanding Question 2 to demonstrate that
5(x + 3) = 5x + 15.

11 Use a diagram of a rectangle to prove that (a + 2)(b + 3) = ab + 2b + 3a + 6.

12 When expanded, 5(2x + 4y) gives 10x + 20y.

a How many different ways can the missing numbers be filled with whole numbers for the
equivalence ( x+ y) = 10x + 20y?
b How many different expressions expand to give 10x + 20y if fractions or decimals are included?

ENRICHMENT: Expanding sentences – – 13

13 Using words, people do a form of expansion. Consider these two statements:

Statement A: ‘John likes tennis and football.’

Statement B: ‘John likes tennis and John likes football.’

Statement B is an ‘expanded form’ of statement A, which is equivalent in its meaning but more clearly
shows that two facts are being communicated. Write an ‘expanded form’ of the following sentences.
a Rosemary likes Maths and English.
b Priscilla eats fruit and vegetables.
c Bailey and Lucia like the opera.
d Frank and Igor play video games.
e Pyodir and Astrid like fruit and vegetables.

(Note: There are four facts being communicated in part e.)

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 5G Algebraic modelling 311

5G Algebraic modelling
Learning intentions
• To know that algebra can model a variety of situations
• To be able to apply an expression in a modelling situation
• To be able to construct an expression from a problem description

Algebraic expressions can be used to

A standard Uber fare is
describe problems relating to many calculated by adding a
different areas, including costs, speeds base fare to a cost for t
minutes and a cost for
and sporting results. Much of modern d km. For example, a
science relies on the application of fare in dollars could be
2.55 + 0.38t + 1.15d .
algebraic rules and formulas. It is
important to be able to convert word
descriptions of problems to mathematical
expressions in order to solve these
problems mathematically.

LESSON STARTER Garden bed area

The garden shown at right has an area of 34 m2, but the width and length w=?
are unknown.
2m
• What are some possible values that w and l could equal? l=? area = 34 m2
• Try to find the dimensions of the garden that make the fencing around
3m
the outside as small as possible.

KEY IDEAS
■ Many different situations can be modelled with algebraic expressions.

■ To apply an expression, the pronumerals should be defined clearly. Then known values should be
substituted for the pronumerals.

BUILDING UNDERSTANDING
1 The area of a rectangle is given by the expression w × l, where w is its width and l is its length in
metres.
a Find the area in square metres if w = 5 and l = 7.
b Find the area in square metres if w = 2 and l = 10.
2 The perimeter of a square with width w cm is given by the expression 4w cm.
a Find the perimeter of a square with width 6 cm (i.e. w = 6).
b Find the perimeter of a square with width 10 m (i.e. w = 10).
x x
3 Consider the equilateral triangle shown.
a State an expression that gives the perimeter of this triangle.
b Use your expression to find the perimeter if x = 12. x

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 312 Chapter 5 Algebra

Example 14 Applying an expression

The perimeter of a rectangle is given by the expression 2w + 2l, where w is the width and l is the
length.
a Find the perimeter of a rectangle if w = 5 and l = 7.
b Find the perimeter of a rectangle with width 3 cm and length 8 cm.

SOLUTION EXPLANATION
a 2w + 2l = 2(5) + 2(7) To apply the rule, we substitute w = 5 and
= 10 + 14 l = 7 into the expression.
= 24 Evaluate using the normal rules of arithmetic
(i.e. multiplication before addition).

b 2w + 2l = 2(3) + 2(8) Substitute w = 3 and l = 8 into the expression.

= 6 + 16 Evaluate using the normal rules of arithmetic,
= 22 cm remembering to include appropriate units (cm)
in the answer.

Now you try

bh
The area of a triangle is given by the expression where b is the base
2 h
width and h is the height.

a Find the area of a triangle if b = 7 and h = 10. b

b Find the area of a triangle with base 20 cm and height 12 cm.

Example 15 Constructing expressions from problem descriptions

Write expressions for each of the following.

a The total cost, in dollars, of 10 bottles, if each bottle costs $x.
b The total cost, in dollars, of hiring a plumber for n hours. The plumber charges a $30 call-out
fee plus $60 per hour.
c A plumber charges a $60 call-out fee plus $50 per hour. Use an expression to find how much an
8-hour job would cost.

SOLUTION EXPLANATION
a 10x Each of the 10 bottles costs $x, so the total cost
is 10 × x = 10x.

b 30 + 60n For each hour, the plumber charges $60, so

must pay 60 × n = 60n. The $30 call-out fee is
added to the total bill.

c Expression for cost: 60 + 50n Substitute n = 8 to find the cost for an 8-hour
If n = 8, then cost is 60 + 50 × 8 = $460 job. Cost will be $460.

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 5G Algebraic modelling 313

Now you try

Write expressions for each of the following.
a The total volume, in litres, of soft drink in n bottles, if each bottle contains 2 litres.
b The total time, in minutes, it takes to paint k square metres of fencing, given that it takes
20 minutes to set up the painting equipment and then 5 minutes per square metre.
c Hiring a car costs $80 hiring fee plus $110 per day. Use an expression to find the cost of hiring
the car for seven days.

Exercise 5G
FLUENCY 1–6 2–7 3–7

Example 14 1 The perimeter of a rectangle is given by the expression 2w + 2l where w is the width and l is the length.
a Find the perimeter of a rectangle if w = 4 and l = 10.
b Find the perimeter of a rectangle with width 7 cm and length 15 cm.

Example 14 2 The perimeter of an isosceles triangle is given by the expression x + 2y where x is the
base length and y is the length of the other sides
y y
a Find the perimeter if x = 3 and y = 5.
b Find the perimeter of an isosceles triangle if the base length is 4 m and the other
sides are each 7 m. x

Example 15a 3 If pens cost $2 each, write an expression for the cost, in dollars, of n pens.

Example 15 4 If pencils cost $x each, write an expression for the cost, in dollars, of:
a 10 pencils
b 3 packets of pencils, if each packet contains 5 pencils
c k pencils

5 A car travels at 60 km/h, so in n hours it has travelled 60n kilometres.

a How far does the car travel in 3 hours (i.e. n = 3)?
b How far does the car travel in 30 minutes?
c Write an expression for the total distance (in km) travelled in n hours for a motorbike with speed
70 km/h.

6 A carpenter charges a $40 call-out fee and then $80 per hour. This means the total cost, in dollars, for
x hours of work is 40 + 80x.
a How much would it cost for a 2-hour job (i.e. x = 2)?
b How much would it cost for a job that takes 8 hours?
c The call-out fee is increased to $50. What is the new expression for the total cost, in dollars,
of x hours?

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 314 Chapter 5 Algebra

Example 15b 7 Match up the word problems with the expressions (A to E) below.
a The area of a rectangle with length 5 and width x. A 10 + 2x
b The perimeter of a rectangle with length 5 and width x. B 5x
c The total cost, in dollars, of hiring a DVD for x days if the C 5+x
price is $1 per day.
d The total cost, in dollars, of hiring a builder for 5 hours if D x
the builder charges a $10 call-out fee and then $x per hour.
e The total cost, in dollars, of buying a $5 magazine and a E 10 + 5x
book that costs $x.

PROBLEM-SOLVING 8, 9 9−11 10−12

8 A plumber charges a $50 call-out fee and $100 per hour.

a Copy and complete the table below.
Number of hours 1 2 3 4 5
Total costs ($)

b Find the total cost if the plumber works for t hours.

Give an expression.
c Substitute t = 30 into your expression to find how much
it will cost for the plumber to work 30 hours.

9 To hire a tennis court, you must pay a $5 booking fee plus $10 per hour.
a What is the cost of booking a court for 2 hours?
b What is the cost of booking a court for x hours? Write an expression.
c A tennis coach hires a court for 7 hours. Substitute x = 7 into your expression to find the total cost.

10 Adrian’s mobile phone costs 30 cents to make a connection, plus 60 cents per minute of talking. This
means that a t-minute call costs 30 + 60t cents.
a What is the cost of a 1-minute call?
b What is the cost of a 10-minute call? Give your answer in dollars.
c Write an expression for the cost of a t-minute call in dollars.

11 In Australian Rules football a goal is worth 6 points and a ‘behind’ is worth 1 point. This means the
total score for a team is 6g + b, if g goals and b behinds are scored.
a What is the score for a team that has scored 5 goals and 3 behinds?
b What are the values of g and b for a team that has scored 8 goals and 5 behinds?
c If a team has a score of 20, this could be because g = 2 and b = 8. What are the other possible
values of g and b?

12 In a closing-down sale, a shop sells all CDs for $c each, books cost $b each and DVDs cost $d each.
Claudia buys 5 books, 2 CDs and 6 DVDs.
a What is the cost, in dollars, of Claudia’s order? Give your answer as an expression involving b, c and d.
b Write an expression for the cost, in dollars, of Claudia’s order if CDs doubled in price and DVDs
halved in price.
c As it happens, the total price Claudia ends up paying is the same in both situations. Given that CDs
cost $12 and books cost $20 (so c = 12 and b = 20), how much do DVDs cost?

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 5G Algebraic modelling 315

REASONING 13 13 13, 14

13 A shop charges $c for a box of tissues.

a Write an expression for the total cost, in dollars, of buying n boxes of tissues.
b If the original price is tripled, write an expression for the total cost, in dollars, of buying n boxes
of tissues.
c If the original price is tripled and twice as many boxes are bought, write an expression for the total
cost in dollars.

14 Hiring a basketball court costs $10 for a booking fee, plus $30 per hour.
a Write an expression for the total cost in dollars to hire the court for x hours.
b For the cost of $40, you could hire the court for 1 hour. How long could you hire the court for the
cost of $80? Assume that the time does not need to be rounded to the nearest hour.
c Explain why it is not the case that hiring the court for twice as long costs twice as much.
d Find the average cost per hour if the court is hired for a 5 hour basketball tournament.
e Describe what would happen to the average cost per hour if the court is hired for many hours
(e.g. more than 50 hours).

ENRICHMENT: Mobile phone mayhem – – 15

15 Rochelle and Emma are on different mobile phone plans, as shown below.
Connection Cost per minute
Rochelle 20 cents 60 cents
Emma 80 cents 40 cents

a Write an expression for the cost of making a t-minute call using Rochelle’s phone.
b Write an expression for the cost of making a t-minute call using Emma’s phone.
c Whose phone plan would be cheaper for a 7-minute call?
d What is the length of call for which it would cost exactly the same for both phones?
e Investigate current mobile phone plans and describe how they compare to those of Rochelle’s and
Emma’s plans.

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 316 Chapter 5 Algebra

Internet service provider

A small internet service provider is exploring a number of pricing structures for its customers. Three
structures that it is considering are listed below.
Modelling

• Structure 1: No initial connection fee plus $40 per month

• Structure 2: $80 initial connection plus $30 per month
• Structure 3: $150 initial connection plus $25 per month

Present a report for the following tasks and ensure that you show clear mathematical workings and expla-
nations where appropriate.

Preliminary task
a Find the total cost of purchasing 12 months’ service using:
i pricing structure 1 ii pricing structure 2 iii pricing structure 3.
b How many months’ service will $380 provide using pricing structure 2?
c Which pricing structure is cheapest for 6 months of service? Give reasons.

Modelling task
Formulate
a The problem is to find the pricing structure that provides the best and worst value for money for
customers, depending on how long they use the service. Write down all the relevant information
that will help solve this problem.
b If a customer receives n months of service, write expressions for the total cost in dollars using:
i pricing structure 1 ii pricing structure 2 iii pricing structure 3.

c Use your expressions to find the total Months

Solve 3 6 9 12 15
cost of 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15 months of
Structure 1 cost ($)
service using the three different pricing
Structure 2 cost ($)
structures. Summarise your results
Structure 3 cost ($)
using a table like the one shown.
d Determine the pricing structure that produces most money for the internet provider for:
i 9 months of service ii 15 months of service.
e For how many months will the overall cost of the following pricing structures be the same?
i 1 and 2 ii 2 and 3 iii 1 and 3

Evaluate and
f Describe the pricing structure(s) which deliver(s) the cheapest service for customers. If it depends
verify on the number of months of service, explain how this affects the answers.

Communicate g Summarise your results and describe any key findings.

Extension questions
a Construct a possible pricing structure which has a higher connection fee, but is cheaper than the
above pricing structures for 12 months of service. Justify your choice.
b Construct a possible pricing structure with a $100 connection fee that has a total cost of $520 for
12 months of service. Justify your answer with calculations.

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 Investigation 317

Fencing paddocks
A farmer is interested in fencing off a

Investigation
large number of 1 m × 1 m foraging
regions for the chickens. Consider the
n=1
pattern shown at right.

a For n = 2, the outside perimeter is n=2

8 m, the area is 4 m2 and the total
length of fencing required is n=3
12 m. Copy and complete the
following table.

n 1 2 3 4 5 6
Outside perimeter (m) 8
Area (m2) 4
Fencing required (m) 12

b Write an expression for:

i the total outside perimeter of the fenced section
ii the total area of the fenced section.
c The farmer knows that the expression for the total amount of fencing is one of the following.
Which one is correct? Prove to the farmer that the others are incorrect.
i 6n ii (n + 1) 2 iii n × 2 × (n + 1)
d Use the correct formula to work out the total amount of fencing required if the farmer wants to have a
total area of 100 m2 fenced off.
In a spreadsheet application these calculations can be made automatically. Set up a spreadsheet as follows.

Drag down the cells until you have all the rows from n = 0 to n = 30.

e Find the amount of fencing needed if the farmer wants the total area to be at least:
i 25 m2 ii 121 m2 iii 400 m2 iv 500 m2.
f If the farmer has 144 m of fencing, what is the maximum area his grid could have?
g For each of the following lengths of fencing, give the maximum area, in m2, that the farmer could
contain in the grid.
i 50 m ii 200 m iii 1 km iv 40 km

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 318 Chapter 5 Algebra

1 If x + y = 8 and y + m = 17 find the value of Up for a challenge? If you get stuck

x + 2y + m. on a question, check out the ‘Working
with unfamiliar problems’ poster at
2 A square is cut in half and the two identical the end of the book to help you.
Problems and challenges

rectangles are joined to form a rectangle as

shown in this diagram.

Find an expression for the perimeter of the rectangle if the square has a side length of:
a 2m b 4(x + 3) c w+y

3 These two identical ‘L’ shapes are to be joined along identical (matching) sides without any overlap.
Find a simplified algebraic expression for the largest and smallest possible perimeters of the joined
shapes and also for the difference between these two perimeters.

Calculate this difference when x = 10. The diagrams are not drawn to scale.
x+3 x+3

2(x + 5) 2(x + 5)

4 In a list of five consecutive integers, the middle integer is 3a + 2. Find two equivalent expressions for
the sum of these five integers: one expanded and simplified, and one factorised. (Note that consecutive
integers are whole numbers that follow each other. For example, 3, 4, 5 and 6 are four consecutive
integers.)

5 Find the values of the pronumerals below in the following sum/product tables.
a b Product
Sum
a b c a b 18
d 24 32 2 c d
Sum 12 e 48 Product 12 e 180

6 What is the coefficient of x once the expression x + 2(x + 1) + 3(x + 2) + 4(x + 3) + …

+ 100(x + 99) is simplified completely?

7 Think of any number and then perform the following operations. Add 5, then double the result, then
subtract 12, then subtract the original number, then add 2. Use algebra to explain why you now have
the original number again. Then design a puzzle like this yourself and try it on friends.

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 Chapter summary 319

Creating expressions Multiplying and dividing Pronumerals

6 more than k: k + 6 expressions are letters used to represent numbers
Product of 4 and x : 4x 2 × a × 3 × a × b = 6a 2b gg : number of grapes in a bunch
10 less than b: b − 10 6xy dd : distance travelled (in metres)
6xy ÷ 12x =
Half of q: 2
q 12x

Chapter summary
y
The sum of a and b is =
2
tripled: 3(a + b)

Terms are pronumerals and numbers

combined with ×, ÷
e.g. 4x, 10y, 3a , 12
3a means 3 × a
b
10
means b ÷ 10

Algebraic expressions
Like terms have exactly the same
Combination of numbers, pronumerals pronumerals.
and operations, e.g. 2xy + 3yz, 12
x
−3 5a and 3a
2ab and 12ba
7ab and 2a

Substitution
Equivalent expressions
Always equal when pronumerals
Algebra Replacing pronumerals with values.
e.g. 5x + 2y when x =10 with and y = 3
are substituted. becomes 5(10) + 2(3) = 50 + 6 = 56
e.g. 2x + 3 and 3 + 2x are equivalent. e.g. q 2 when q = 7 becomes 72 = 49
4(3x) and 12x are equivalent.

Combining like terms gives a

way to simplify.
To simplify e.g. 4a + 2 + 3a = 7a + 2
simpler expression that is equivalent. 3b + 5c + 2b − c = 5b + 4c
12xy + 3x − 5yx = 7xy + 3x
Applications
Commonly used expressions
A=l×w
P = 2l + 2w
Expanding brackets (Ext) w
l
3(a + 4) = 3a + 12
Cost is 50 + 90x
5k(10 − 2j ) = 50k − 10kj
Using the distributive law gives an call-out hourly
equivalent expression. fee rate

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 320 Chapter 5 Algebra

Chapter checklist: Success criteria

✔
1. I can state the coefficients of pronumerals within an expressions.
Chapter checklist

5A
e.g. What is the coefficient of c in 3a + b + 13c?

2. I can list terms within expressions, and identify constant terms.

5A
e.g. List the terms in 3a + b + 13c and circle the constant term.

3. I can write algebraic expressions from word descriptions.

5A
e.g. Write an expression for ‘the sum of a and b’.

4. I can substitute a number for a pronumeral and evaluate.

5B
e.g. Given that t = 5, evaluate 8t.

5. I can substitute multiple numbers for multiple pronumerals and evaluate.

5B
e.g. Substitute x = 4 and y = 7 to evaluate the 80 − (2xy + y ).

6. I can substitute into expressions involving powers and roots.

5B
e.g. If p = 4 find the value of 3p 2.

7. I can decide whether two expressions are equivalent.

5C
e.g. Indicate the two expressions which are equivalent: 3x + 4, 8 − x, 2x + 4 + x.

8. I can decide whether two terms are like terms.

5D
e.g. Decide whether 2ab and 5ba are like terms, giving reasons.

9. I can simplify using like terms.

5D
e.g. Simplify 5 + 12a + 4b − 2 − 3a by collecting like terms.

10. I can simplify expressions involving multiplication.

5E
e.g. Simplify 4a × 2b × 3c, giving your final answer without multiplication signs.

11. I can simplify expressions involving division.

5E
8ab
e.g. Simplify the expression .
12b

12. I can expand brackets.

5F Ext
e.g. Expand 3(a + 2b).

13. I can apply an expression in a modelling problem.

5G
e.g. Given the perimeter of a rectangle is 2w + 2l, find the perimeter of a rectangle with length
8 cm and width 3 cm.

14. I can construct an expression from a problem description.

5G
e.g. Write an expression for the total cost of hiring a plumber for n hours, if they charge $30
call‑out fee plus $60 per hour.

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 Chapter review 321

Short-answer questions
1 a List the four individual terms in the expression 5a + 3b + 7c + 12.
5A
b What is the constant term in the expression above?

Chapter review
2 Write an expression for each of the following.
5A
a 7 is added to u b k is tripled c 7 is added to half of r
d 10 is subtracted from h e the product of x and y f x is subtracted from 12

3 If u = 12, find the value of:

5B
24
a u+3 b 2u c d 3u − 4
u
4 If p = 3 and q = 5, find the value of:
5B
a pq b p+q c 2(q − p) d 4p + 3q

5 If t = 4 and u = 10, find the value of:

5B
a t2 b 2u2 c 3 + √t d √10tu

6 For each of the following pairs of expressions, state whether they are equivalent (E) or not
5C
equivalent (N).
a 5x and 2x + 3x
b 7a + 2b and 9ab
c 3c − c and 2c
d 3(x + 2y) and 3x + 2y

7 Classify the following pairs as like terms (L) or not like terms (N).
5D
a 2x and 5x b 7ab and 2a c 3p and p d 9xy and 2yx
e 4ab and 4aba f 8t and 2t g 3p and 3 h 12k and 120k

8 Simplify the following by collecting like terms.

5D
a 2x + 3 + 5x b 12p − 3p + 2p c 12b + 4a + 2b + 3a + 4
d 12mn + 3m + 2n + 5nm e 1 + 2c + 4h − 3o + 5c f 7u + 3v + 2uv − 3u

9 Simplify the following expressions involving products.

5E
a 3a × 4b b 2xy × 3z c 12f × g × 3h d 8k × 2 × 4lm

10 Simplify the following expressions involving quotients.

5E
3u 12y 2ab 12xy
a b c d
2u 20y 6b 9yz

5F
11 Expand the following expressions using the distributive law.
a 3(x + 2) b 4(p − 3) c 7(2a + 3) d 12(2k + 3l)
Ext

12 Give two examples of expressions that expand to give 12b + 18c.5G

5F

Ext

13 If tins of paints weigh 9 kg, write an expression for the weight in kg of t tins of paint.
5G

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 322 Chapter 5 Algebra

14 If there are g girls and b boys in a room, write an expression for the total number of children in
5G
the room.

15 Write an expression for the total number of books that Analena owns if she has x fiction books
5G
and twice as many non-fiction books.
Chapter review

Multiple-choice questions
1 In the expression 3x + 2y + 4xy + 7yz the coefficient of y is:
5A
A 3 B 2 C 4 D 7 E 16

2 If t = 5 and u = 7, then 2t + u is equal to:

5B
A 17 B 32 C 24 D 257 E 70

3 If x = 2, then 3x2 is equal to:

5B
A 32 B 34 C 12 D 25 E 36

4 Which of the following pairs does not consist of two like terms?
5D
A 3x and 5x B 3y and 12y C 3ab and 2ab
D 3cd and 5c E 3xy and yx

5 A fully simplified expression equivalent to 2a + 4 + 3b + 5a is:

5D
A 4 B 5a + 5b + 4 C 10ab + 4
D 7a + 3b + 4 E 11ab

6 The simplified form of 4x × 3yz is:

5E
A 43xyz B 12xy C 12xyz D 12yz E 4x3yz

21ab
7 The simplified form of is:
5E 3ac
7b 7ab 21b b
A B C D 7 E
c ac 3c 7c

8 When brackets are expanded, 4(2x + 3y) becomes:

5F
A 8x + 3y B 2x + 12y C 8x + 8y D 24x E 8x + 12y
Ext

9 The fully simplified form of 2(a + 7b) − 4b is:

5F
A 2a + 10b B 2a + 3b C a + 3b D 2a + 14b − 4b E 2a + 18b
Ext

10 A number is doubled and then 5 is added. The result is then tripled. If the number is represented
5A
by k, then an expression for this description is:
A 3(2k + 5) B 6(k + 5) C 2k + 5 D 2k + 15 E 30k

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 Chapter review 323

Extended-response questions
1 A taxi driver charges $3.50 to pick up passengers
and then $2.10 per kilometre travelled.
a State the total cost if the trip length is:

Chapter review
i 10 km
ii 20 km
iii 100 km.
b Write an expression for the total cost, in dollars,
of travelling a distance of d kilometres.
c Use your expression to find the total cost of
travelling 40 km.
d Prove that your expression is not equivalent to 2.1 + 3.5d by substituting in a value for d.
e Another taxi driver charges $6 to pick up passengers and then $1.20 per kilometre. Write an
expression for the total cost (in dollars) of travelling d kilometres in this taxi.

2 An architect has designed a room, shown below right, for which x and y are unknown.
(All measurements are in metres.)
a Find the perimeter of this room if x = 3 and y = 2. x+5
b It costs $3 per metre to install skirting boards around the
perimeter of the room. Find the total cost of installing skirting x
boards if the room’s perimeter is x = 3 and y = 2. x+y
c Write an expression for the perimeter (in metres) of the room and x+2 y
simplify it completely. 3
d Write an expanded expression for the total cost, in dollars, of
installing skirting boards along the room’s perimeter.
e Write an expression for the total floor area in m2.

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