~2 min read • Updated Jan 31, 2026
1. What Is an Algebraic Expression?
An Algebraic Expression is a combination of numbers, variables, and mathematical operators such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Variables like x, y, or a represent unknown values.
Examples of Algebraic Expressions:
3x + 5
2a - 7
x^2 + 4x + 12. What Is a Monomial?
A Monomial is a type of Algebraic Expression that consists of a single term. It contains only multiplication between numbers and variables.
Examples of Monomials:
5x
-3a^2
7xy3. What Is a Polynomial?
A Polynomial is formed by combining two or more Monomials using addition or subtraction.
Examples of Polynomials:
x + 3
2x^2 - 5x + 1
a^2 + ab + b^24. Degree of Algebraic Expressions
The Degree of an algebraic expression is the highest power of the variable in the expression.
- The degree of
5xis 1 - The degree of
3x^2 + xis 2 - The degree of
x^3 - 2x^2 + xis 3
5. Common Mathematical Formulas
Many calculations in algebra rely on important Mathematical Formulas.
Formula Examples:
a + a = 2a
a × a = a^2
(a + b) ÷ c = a/c + b/c6. Important Mathematical Identities
Mathematical Identities are equations that help simplify and solve algebraic expressions efficiently.
Square of a Sum:
(a + b)^2 = a^2 + 2ab + b^2Square of a Difference:
(a - b)^2 = a^2 - 2ab + b^2Product of Sum and Difference:
(a + b)(a - b) = a^2 - b^2Cube of a Sum:
(a + b)^3 = a^3 + 3a^2b + 3ab^2 + b^3Cube of a Difference:
(a - b)^3 = a^3 - 3a^2b + 3ab^2 - b^37. Applications of Algebraic Expressions and Identities
Algebraic Expressions and Mathematical Identities are widely used in solving equations, simplifying calculations, physics, engineering, and many real-world problems.
Conclusion
Understanding Algebraic Expressions, Monomials, Polynomials, and Mathematical Identities forms the foundation of algebra. Mastering these concepts makes solving complex mathematical problems faster and more efficient.
Written & researched by Dr. Shahin Siami