Variables and Constants

Correct answer: A. The value of a variable can change according to the problem or situation.

Explanation: A variable is a symbol representing a number or quantity whose value may change according to the problem or situation. For example, in \(x+3=8\), \(x=5\), but \(x\) may have a different value in another problem. Therefore, option A is correct. Option B describes a constant, whose value remains fixed. Exam tip: Identify a symbol as a variable when it can take different values.

Correct answer: C. Constant

Explanation: The number 8 has a fixed value and contains no variable, so it is a constant. A variable, such as x, can take different values. A binomial has two terms, so 8 alone is not a binomial. In exams, identify a standalone fixed number as a constant.

Correct answer: B. 2

Explanation: In \(4xy\), \(x\) and \(y\) are two distinct variables, so the number of variables is 2. The number 4 is a constant coefficient, not a variable. In an algebraic term, count the distinct letters to determine the number of variables.