Are (x^2) and (x) like terms?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: No, because the exponent of x is different
Like terms must have exactly the same variables raised to exactly the same powers; only their coefficients may differ. Here, x^2 has exponent 2, whereas x can be written as x^1 and has exponent 1. Therefore, they are not like terms. Option A is a close distractor because merely containing x does not make two terms like terms. Exam tip: If no exponent is shown on a variable, treat its exponent as 1.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
No, because the exponent of x is different
Why is this the correct answer?
Like terms must have exactly the same variables raised to exactly the same powers; only their coefficients may differ. Here, x^2 has exponent 2, whereas x can be written as x^1 and has exponent 1. Therefore, they are not like terms. Option A is a close distractor because merely containing x does not make two terms like terms. Exam tip: If no exponent is shown on a variable, treat its exponent as 1.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 9 Mathematics question. Chapter: Introduction to Polynomials. Topic: Algebraic expressions.
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