How Do You Add Unlike Algebraic Expressions?

You add unlike algebraic expressions by simply writing them down next to each other, connected by the addition (+) sign. You cannot combine or simplify unlike terms. According to the provided reference, “Addition and Subtraction of unlike terms cannot be done together.”

In essence, the addition is complete once the expression is written out. Unlike terms, by definition, do not share the same variable raised to the same power, meaning they cannot be combined using addition.

Understanding Like and Unlike Terms

Before delving into the addition of unlike expressions, let's clarify the difference between like and unlike terms:

Feature	Like Terms	Unlike Terms
Definition	Terms with the same variable(s) raised to the same power(s).	Terms that do not have the same variable(s) raised to the same power(s).
Example	3x and 5x	3x and 5y
Combination Allowed?	Yes	No

Adding Unlike Algebraic Expressions: Examples

Here are some examples demonstrating how to "add" unlike algebraic expressions:

• Example 1: Add 2x and 3y

  The result is 2x + 3y. This is the simplified form, as 2x and 3y are unlike terms.

• Example 2: Add 4a^2 and 7b

  The result is 4a^2 + 7b. Again, these are unlike terms and cannot be combined further.

• Example 3: Add 5x, -2y, and z

  The result is 5x - 2y + z. The expression is already in its simplest form.

Key Takeaway

You don't actually add unlike terms in the sense of combining them into a single term. You simply write them as a sum. The resulting expression is then considered the simplified form.