Question

Explain the differences between an algebraic expression and a verbal expression.

Short answer

The difference is that an algebraic expression, consists of numbers, variables, and mathematical symbols whereas a verbal expression, consists of only words.

Step-by-step solution

Step 1. Define algebraic expression.

An algebraic expression is defined as a mathematical expression or terms made up of numbers and variables with algebraic operations (addition ‘+’, subtraction ‘-’, multiplication ‘*’ etc.).

Step 2. Define verbal expression.

When an algebraic expression is defined as an expression that consists of words, then it is called a verbal expression.

Step 3. Give an example depicting algebraic and verbal expressions.

Consider the expression: $(5-r)$

$(5-r)$is an algebraic expression since operators are used to defining it.

The verbal expression $(5-r)$is “The difference of 5 and r”.

In this example, the above algebraic expression is defined in words (difference of 5 and r).

Thus, it is called a verbal expression, not an algebraic expression.