Chapter 8: Algebraic expressions (Part 2)

8.1 Introduction

We can create algebraic expressions to predict how much money will be saved using different strategies. For example, if you start with a certain amount of money (\(m\)) today and then double it tomorrow, thereafter adding \(\text{R} 20\) to the total amount every month, how much money will you save for a family holiday in \(12\) months' time?

\[m \times 2 + 20 \times 12 = 2m + 240\]

In this chapter, you will learn about simplifying algebraic expressions by expanding them. Expanding an algebraic expression allows you to change the form of an expression without changing the output values it gives.

Rewriting an expression in a different form can be useful for making calculations simpler and for comparing expressions. We use two main tools to simplify expressions: we combine like terms, and we use the distributive property.