Order of Operations and Expressions

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers fundamental algebraic concepts including the order of operations, types of mathematical expressions, and the process of evaluating variables.

Order of Operations

A set of rules for evaluating expressions in the following sequence: Parentheses (grouping symbols), Exponents, Multiplication and Division from LEFT to RIGHT, and Addition and Subtraction from LEFT to RIGHT.

Numerical Expression

A mathematical phrase that consists of numbers and operations ($+$, $-$, $\times$, $\text{÷}$), such as $5+3$, $6-17$, $8(23)$, or $9 \text{÷} 15$.

Variable

A letter used to represent one or more numbers.

Variable Expression

A mathematical phrase that consists of numbers, variables, and operations ($+$, $-$, $\times$, $\text{÷}$), such as $3x+5$, $6p-13$, $8w$, or $y \text{÷} 32$.

Evaluate

To substitute a number for the given variable and evaluate the resulting numeric expression, for example: evaluating $4d$ when $d = 120$ results in $4(120) = 480$.

Parentheses (P)

The first step in the Order of Operations, referring to grouping symbols.

Exponents (E)

The second step in the Order of Operations, performed after parentheses.

Multiplication (M) and Division (D)

The steps in the Order of Operations performed from LEFT to RIGHT after evaluating exponents.

Addition (A) and Subtraction (S)

The final steps in the Order of Operations, performed from LEFT to RIGHT.