02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.

3 Page 40 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

Patterns and algebra

Algebra

Algebra has helped people unlock some of the secrets of the universe.
Algebraic skills are fundamental to solving equations. Many natural
phenomena, such as rainbows (caused by the diffraction of light in
raindrops), reflections in water or mirrors, and sound waves, can be
explained and described using algebra and equations.

02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 41 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

In this chapter you will:

understand and use variables, algebraic terms and expressions

recognise and combine like terms to simplify algebraic expressions
simplify algebraic expressions that involve multiplication and division
substitute into algebraic expressions
expand and factorise algebraic expressions
simplify algebraic expressions involving fractions.

Wordbank

algebra The branch of mathematics that uses symbols to describe the

number patterns and relationships occurring in the real world.
evaluate Find the value of an algebraic expression or formula.
3
- is
simplify To make shorter or less complex. When the fraction ----12
1
simplified, the result is --- . In algebra, 4a + 3a simplfies to 7a.
4
substitution Replacing a variable with a number in an algebraic
expression.
expand Rewrite an expression such as 3(2k + 7) without grouping
symbols. When 3(2k + 7) is expanded, the result is 6k + 21.
factorise To rewrite an expression with grouping symbols, by taking out
the highest common factor. Factorising is the opposite of expanding.

Think!
The speed (in km/h) of a car after t seconds is given by the expression
100 6t. Is the speed of the car increasing or decreasing? Can you
calculate the speed of the car after 7 seconds? What is the cars speed after
10 seconds?

ALGE B R A

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Start up
Worksheet
2-01
Brainstarters 2

1 Simplify where possible:

a 9y y
d 8a + 5y + a
g 3y2 + 2y
j 20abc2 3ab2c

b
e
h
k

2 Simplify:
a 9 2xy
d 5m 10m

b 3 2w2
e 8y2 y

c 6a 2p
f 3a 5ac

9y 9
7ab + 2ab
18ay + 2ay
9m2 5m 3m2

c
f
i
l

8ab + 2ab
16 + xy + 10
x + 5x + 5
2p2q + 4pq2 7p2q

3 Simplify:
a

16a
--------4

b 8xy 2x

c 20abc 5c

3ay
--------6

e 12a2 (2a)

b 6p

c 9p

4 If p = 6, nd the value of:

a p2
d 3p + 20

3p
-----4

5 Write the factors of:

a 12

b 27

c 9x

40abc 2
-----------------8ac

12 + 2p

d 16ab

6 Find the highest common factor (HCF) of the following:

a 18 and 10
b 50 and 20
d 8x and 5x
e 16ab and 8a
g 30mp and 12m
h 18xy and 4w

c 24 and 27
f 20 and 4y
i 20ab2 and 8c

7 Evaluate:

Skillsheet
2-01
Algebraic
expressions
Worksheet
2-03
Generalised
arithmetic

3
--5

2
--3

9
-----10

5
--8

1
--4

2
--5

1
--3

7
--8

5
--8

----- 10

2
--3

3
-----10

5
--3

9
-----

13
5
--6

3
--5
20

Generalised arithmetic
In arithmetic we use symbols to represent numbers when we know their value. These symbols
are called numerals.

The symbol 6 is used to represent the number of dots in this circle.

The symbol 4 is used to represent the number of crosses in this rectangle.

In algebra we use symbols to represent numbers when we do not know their value or when
their value may change. Letter symbols are commonly used (a, b, x, y) but any symbol may be
used. These symbols are called variables (or sometimes pronumerals).
Algebra is used to write generalisations. For instance, the expression x + 8 is a general way of
stating any number plus 8, where the variable x stands for any number.

42

N E W C E N T U R Y M A T H S 9 : S T A G E S 5.2/ 5.3

02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 43 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

The average, x, of the two numbers 5 and 9 is x =

5+9
------------ .
2
a+b
------------ .
2

So, in general, we can say that the

average, x, of any two numbers, a and b, is x =

These examples show that algebra can be used to make generalisations. The generalisations
are algebraic expressions that show the steps we need to take in order to obtain a certain result.

Simplifying algebraic expressions

An algebraic expression is an expression or statement consisting of algebraic terms. For
example, 3d + 7k 5 and 15hk 25 + x are algebraic expressions.
Algebraic expressions should always be simplied. This means that the algebraic expression
should be written in as short a form as possible.

Adding and subtracting algebraic expressions

Like terms are terms in which the variables are exactly the same.
For instance:
3k and 7k are like terms
2d and 5m are not like terms because they do not have exactly the same variables
3ab and 7ba are like terms, because ab is the same as ba
2xy and 5yz are not like terms
2x and 3x2 are not like terms.

Add and subtract like terms only.

Just for the record

Worksheet
2-02
Investigating
patterns in
number
problems

Patterns and pineapples

The pattern of Fibonacci numbers is 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21,
Surprisingly, perhaps, these numbers often appear in nature.
For example, a pineapple is covered by scales, each of which
is a hexagon. Any one of these hexagons is on three different
spirals on the pineapple. The number of hexagons on each
of these spirals is 8, 13 and 21 (the steepest spiral).
These numbers are three consecutive Fibonacci numbers!

the three different spirals

1 Find three other examples of Fibonacci numbers appearing in nature.

2 Can the Fibonacci number pattern be represented algebraically?
ALGE B R A

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02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 44 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

Exercise 2-01
Skillsheet
2-02
Algebra using
diagrams
CAS
2-01
Collecting like
terms
SkillBuilder
8-058-06
Introductory
algebra

1 Simplify, where possible:

a 8y + 5y
b 12x 2x
e 8e 8e
f 19y y
i 5y 6y
j 6ac + 2ca
2 Simplify, where possible:
a 8y + 2y + 6
d 16 + 5x + x
g 1 + 2y + 6

c 13 + 4y
g 9y3 + 2y2
k 8xy xy 2yx

b 3a + 10 a
e 9ac + 2a + ac
h 3ay + 8y + ay

d 7a + 2a a
h 13n + 2n n
l 8e2f + 2fe2

c 7m + 5y 2m
f 7xy + 5 + xy
i x 6 5x

3 Simplify each of the following expressions:

a 4m + 3 + 2m + 7
b 2y + 6g y 3g
d 8 + 3k + 7 2k
e 2p 3 12p + 5
g 8t 3y 2t 4y
h 6 4n + 5 3n
j 3 + 4w + 8 + 7w
k 3e 7t + 5e + 2t
m 4c2 + 3c + 5c2 9c
n 5x2 + 2x3 3x2 7x3
p 4hy2 3h 2hy2 4h
q y 10x x + 2y

c
f
i
l
o
r

7p + 8h 6p h
12y 5k + 3y 4k
5a + 3f 7a 4f
4ab + 3q 5ba 7q
m ab 3m + 2ab
4a2 6y 10y 5a2

4 Simplify each of the following expressions by collecting like terms.

a 5a 3a
b 7m2 + 2m
c 5k 11k
d 3u u
e 2d 2 7d 2 + 3d
f 5m 2m + 3t
g 8k + 2y + 5k
h 7 3r + 6
i 9b 3u 5b
j 8e + 5 3e + 7
k w + 7w
l 4t + 3g + 5t 7g
m 9y2 7 2y2 13
n 5mn + 3mn
o 3 + 5f + 7 6f
p 3 5f + 7 6f
q 8ab 2b 4ba + 5a
r 3 8l 4 4l
s 5h + 6 + 5h
t n 3n + 2
u 6p3 + 3p + 5p + 2p3
2
2
v s +ss +s
w 3 2cd + 5cd 1
x 8k 3m m2 + 2k
5 Find the perimeter (distance around the outside) of each of the following gures:
p+2

9c

p+2

2a
2p 1

40h

5c

41h

6a
4a

2p
4c

9h

2p 1

f
2x y

p+4
x+4
3p + 5
3x

44

N E W C E N T U R Y M A T H S 9 : S T A G E S 5.2/ 5.3

y+x+1

02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 45 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

6 The dimensions of this diagram are given in terms of

m and n.
Write, in terms of m and n, expressions for:
a the length of CD
b the length of BC
c the perimeter of the gure.

7 The dimensions of this diagram are given in terms of

u and t.
Write, in terms of u and t, expressions for:
a the length of CD
b the length of BC
c the perimeter of the gure.

3m
E
A

3n
u+t

A
3u + 2t

5n

m
F

B
D

ut
F

2u + 5t

8 The perimeter of each shape is (4a + 2c) units. Find the length of the side AB.
B

a+c+2

2a + c

Worksheet
2-04
Perimeter and
area

a+1

a+c
C

Multiplying and dividing algebraic

expressions
When multiplying algebraic expressions, we use shorthand notation. So, instead of writing
4 a b, we write 4ab.
When dividing, the algebraic expression is usually written as a fraction. So the expression h 2
is written as h--- .
2

Example 1
Simplify:
a 5 10y

Solution

a 5 10y = 50y

b 2y 4w

c 5ab ac

b 2y 4w = 8yw

c 5ab ac = 5a2bc

Example 2
Simplify:
a a2b 4ab

b 27cf (3fc)

c 5p2 15p

d 18xy2 10yx2

ALGE B R A

45

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02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 46 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

Solution
a a2b 4ab =
=

1 1
aab
--------------------4ab
1 1
a
--4

b 27cf (3fc) =
=

-9 1 1
27 c f
-----------------------3 f c
1 1 1
9
-----1

= 9
c 5p2 15p =
=

1
1
5pp
---------------------15 p
3
1

d 18xy2 10yx2 =
=

p
--3

9 1
1
18 x y y
--------------------------------10 y x x
5 1
1
9y
-----5x

Example 3
Simplify:
4x + 9x2 3x.

Solution
Use the rule for the order of operations when simplifying.
a 4x + 9x2 3x = 4x +

3
1
9x x
--------------3x
1 1

= 4x + 3x
= 7x

Exercise 2-02
Example 1

Example 2

1 Simplify each of the following:

a 3 5p
b
d 2h 4y
e
g 3w 4
h
j 2a 3 4b
k
m 4c 2f 3c
n
p 2ce 4ec
q

9x 2
3y 2q
4n 2d
3x 4y (5k)
6t 3t 2
3a2d 2d

2 Simplify each of the following:

a 12y 4
b 15k k
e 15uy 5u
f 36mnp 6mp
i abc bc
j 18xy (9y)
2
m 40w 10w
n a2b2 3ab2
2
r 4ab2c 20abc
q 3x 6xy
2
2
2
u a bc 5b ac
v 14xyw (6y2)

46

N E W C E N T U R Y M A T H S 9 : S T A G E S 5.2/ 5.3

c
g
k
o
s
w

c
f
i
l
o
r
24a 6a
16a (4)
5m2 m
9yx2 18xy
9m3 12m4
8a2c 12abc2

4 2m 3
5y 2y
6p (4p)
5r (2r) (3)
4hk 3k
5m2n 3mn
d
h
l
p
t
x

9mk 3m
25ab (5b)
28c2f 4cf
4ab 12a
25ab2 15a2b3
8mp2 9m2p

02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 47 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

3 Use the order of operations to simplify the following:

a 5 4a (10a 8a)
b 5 4a 2a
d 2y 5 2y
e y y 4
g 9m2 + 5m 2m
h d 4 5d
j 2m2 6m 4m
k (r 3r) (10r 2 5r)
m 6c + 15c 3
n 3x2 x 5x

Example 3

c
f
i
l
o

6xy 3 5xy
m 2m 5
(11ac + ac) (6a 2c)
9y 8a 2y 4a
2g g 15g3 5g

CAS
2-02
Multiplying and
dividing
expressions

4 Find the area of each of the following shapes:

a

b
2d

2k

4p
3c

4k
3a

Worksheet
2-05
Bits and pieces

6y

Worksheet
2-04
Perimeter and
area

5 Find an expression for the volume of each of the following prisms:

a

c
w

2m
5d

2w
6k

2m
2m

4y
3t

Substitution in algebraic expressions

In any algebraic expression, we can replace the variables with numbers to obtain a value for
the expression. This process is called substitution.
For instance, the perimeter, P metres, of a rectangle of length l and
bm
breadth b metres can be expressed algebraically as:
P = 2l + 2b
lm
When l = 4.5 and b = 2.8, P can then be found as follows:
P = 2 4.5 + 2 2.8
= 14.6
So the perimeter is 14.6 metres.

ALGE B R A

47

Worksheet
2-06
Tables of values

CHAPTER 2

02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 48 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

Using technology
Substitution
A spreadsheet can be used to evaluate an algebraic expression for different values of variables.
Step 1: To nd the value of P = x2 + 3x 2 for ten values of x, set up your spreadsheet as
follows:
A

=A2^2+A2*32

=A2+1

Step 2: Using Fill Down, copy the formulas down to A12 and B12.
Step 3: Print out your spreadsheet and paste it in your workbook.

Example 4
If t = 4, c = 2 and h = 5, nd the value of each of the following:
c 3t 2
a 2h c + t
b h2 + c2

Solution

2h c + t
= 2 5 (2) + 4
= 16

h2 + c2
= 52 + (2)2
= 29

3t 2
= 3 42
= 3 16
= 48

Example 5
If E = mgh, nd E when m = 10, g = 9.8 and h = 23.4.

Solution

E = mgh
= 10 9.8 23.4
= 2293.2

Exercise 2-03
Example 4

CAS
2-03
Substituting into
an expression

1 Find the value of 2p + q when:

a p = 1, q = 2
b p = 1--- , q = 1
2 Find the value of

xy
----------w

when:

a x = 40, y = 5, w = 15
c x = 6, y = 12, w = 3
3 Find the value of abc2 when:
a a = 12, b = 3, c = 1--6

c a = 3, b = 10, c = 0

48

c p = 5, q = 8

N E W C E N T U R Y M A T H S 9 : S T A G E S 5.2/ 5.3

b x = 8, y = 10, w = 2
d x = 15, y = 9, w = 10
b a = 5, b = 2, c = 1
d a = 3--- , b = 1--- , c = 4
4

02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 49 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

4 Find the value of pq qt when:

a p = 3, q = 2, t = 6
c p = 8, q =

1
--- ,
2

t = 10

b p = 4, q = 2, t = 1
d p = 1--- , q = 2--- , t =
3

-----3

5 Evaluate:
a

a
--c

c
--d

when a = 20, c = 10, d = 5

b xyw2 when x = 2, y =
c

ya
----------xb

1
-----,
4

w = 2

when y = 8, a = 12, x = 6, b = 2

6 Evaluate each of the following if m = 2, n = 3, p = 5:

a m+n+p
b mn
c np
e np m
i

p+n
-----------m

mn + p

g 5n + 3p

5m2

k m2 + p 4n

c 3(p + r + q)

d 2p 3q

7 If p = 2, q = 5 and r = 8, evaluate each of:

a p+qr
b 4pr
e

pr2

(3 r)2

1
--- pqr
2
p
r
--- + --q
q

q2

qr
----p

Worksheet
2-07
Substitution
puzzle

d m2 n2

2q

m+n+p
p
------------nm

h (p + q)2 r2
pr
----------q

8 a If P = 2L + 2B, nd P when L = 4.7 and B = 2.5.

b If V = LBH, nd V given that L = 4, B = 6.5 and H = 3.5.

Example 5

c If A = 1--- bh, nd A if b = 15 and h = 12.

d If A =

2
1
--- h(a
2

+ b), nd A given that h = 4.5, a = 6 and b = 8.

e Given that A = 1--- xy, nd A when x = 4.8 and y = 8.4.

2

Using grouping symbols in algebra

Grouping symbols may be used in algebra in a similar manner to the way they are used in
arithmetic.
For example, 3(4 + 7), which can also be written as 3 (4 + 7), can be evaluated in two ways.
3(4 + 7) = 3 (4 + 7)
or
3(4 + 7) = 3 (4 + 7)
= 3 11
=34+37
= 33
= 12 + 21
= 33

Working mathematically
Communicating and reasoning: Grouping symbols and areas
Consider the rectangle below, which has length (r + t) units and breadth 3 units.
1 Write an expression for the area of the rectangle.
2 The rectangle has been divided into two smaller
rectangles, A and B. The lengths of A and B are r units
and t units respectively, and the breadth of both is
3 units. Write the area of A and B in simplest form.

r
3

t
B

3 Write the sum of the areas of A and B.

ALGE B R A

49

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4 Since the area of the whole rectangle is the same as the sum of the areas of A and B, we
can write 3(r + t) = 3r + 3t. Notice that each term inside the grouping symbols is
multiplied by the term outside the grouping symbols.
Repeat this process for rectangles with the following measurements:
a length x + y and breadth 7
b length 3 + k and breadth 4
c length a + b and breadth c
(Compare your results with those of other students.)
5 Use the rectangle shown to help you simplify the area of A, 4(3 k).
3k

Expanding algebraic expressions

When expanding an expression, each term inside the grouping symbols (brackets) is multiplied
by the term outside the grouping symbols.

Example 6
Expand each of the following:
a 5(3 d)

b a(3 + 2a)

c 5f(2f + 3)

Solution
a

5(3 d)
=535d
= 15 5d

a(3 + 2a)
= a 3 + a 2a
= 3a + 2a2

Example 7
Expand each of the following:
a 3g(2 + 5g)

b 4(3 5x)

Solution
a

3g(2 + 5g)
= 3g 2 + (3g) 5g
= 6g + (15g2)
= 6g 15g2

4(3 5x)
= 4 3 (4) 5x
= 12 (20x)
= 12 + 20x

Example 8
Expand each of the following expressions:
a (7 + 3w)
b (h 2m)

Solution
a

50

(7 + 3w)
= 1(7 + 3w)
= 1 7 + (1) 3w
= 7 + (3w)
= 7 3w

(h 2m)
= 1(h 2m)
= 1 h (1) 2m
= h (2m)
= h + 2m

N E W C E N T U R Y M A T H S 9 : S T A G E S 5.2/ 5.3

5f(2f + 3)
= 5f 2f + 5f 3
= 10f 2 + 15f

02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 51 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

Example 9
Expand and simplify:
a 5(1 + 2k) 7k
c 6(1 2c) 2(3c + 1)

b 4(x + 3) + 5(2x 7)
d 3p(p 4) 2p(4p 5)

Solution

5(1 + 2k) 7k
= 5 1 + 5 2k 7k
= 5 + 10k 7k
= 5 + 3k
c
6(1 2c) 2(3c + 1)
= 6 1 6 2c 2 3c + (2) 1
= 6 12c 6c 2
= 4 18c (or 18c + 4)

4(x + 3) + 5(2x 7)
= 4 x + 4 3 + 5 2x 5 7
= 4x + 12 + 10x 35
= 14x 23
d
3p(p 4) 2p(4p 5)
= 3p p 3p 4 2p 4p 2p (5)
= 3p2 12p 8p2 + 10p
= 5p2 2p

Exercise 2-04
Example 6

1 Expand each of the following:

a 5(t 3)
d 2(d + e)
g c(2c + d)
j a(a 3)

b
e
h
k

4(1 3b)
m(n + p)
4(8 7f )
7(2p 3m)

c
f
i
l

4(3k + 5)
5(1 2w)
3k(k 2w)
4n(3n + 5y)

2 Expand each of the following:

a 3(s + 2)
d 4(3d + 5e)
g 7(3b 2q)
j 3(3 5m)

b
e
h
k

5(4f + 3)
w(2w 5)
8(2d + 3)
p(2p + p2)

c
f
i
l

2(2m + c)
7(5 a)
4r(r 5y)
2v(3 7n + 3r)

3 Expand each of the following expressions:

b (5x + 2)
a (4 + 3m)
d (8 + y)
e (1 + p)
g (1 2a)
h (1 e)

CAS
2-04
Expanding
expressions
Example 7

Example 8

c (3f + 5)
f (6n 1)
i (10 5q)
Example 9

4 Expand and simplify:

a 4k + 3(2k + 5)
d 6 3(4 + x)
g 3w 2(4 + 2w)
j 4(3 2h) + 2(3 4h)
m 3(4 + 3e) 4(2e 1)

b
e
h
k
n

3(1 5y) + 6y
8 5(2d 7)
5(t + 4) + 3(t + 2)
4(2m + 5) 2(m + 4)
8(3c + 1) 5(2c 3)

c
f
i
l
o

4(m + 3n) + 2n
12p 4(1 3p)
2(3v + 1) + 5(v + 7)
5(6 + d) 4(3d + 1)
2(1 8w) 3(1 2w)

5 Expand and simplify:

a 5m(1 + 2m) + 3m(m + 1)
d 3q(q + 4) q(q 1)
g 5t(4 3t) 2t(1 6t)
j 5(6d 3) (4d + 3)
m 2k(k 1) (4k + 5)

b
e
h
k
n

2w(3w + 2) w(3w + 4)
5v(2v + 3) 2v(3v 4)
m(m 3) m(2m + 4)
2(1 + 2h) (1 5h)
3f(5f + 2) 4f(2f 1)

c
f
i
l
o

4r(2r + 1) 5r(r + 2)
2a(4a 1) 3a(2a 5)
4e(1 2e) e(3e + 4)
7r(1 2r) (3r 4)
3b(1 4b) + 2(8b 4)

6 Expand and simplify:

a 2w + (3w + 5)
d 7 2(3m + 2)

b 3(2k 5) + 7
e 2(h + 3) + 3(h 4)

c 2(3r + 2) 9r
f 5x 3x(2 x)

ALGE B R A

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02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 52 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

g 1 4(s 1)
j 4(e + 3) 3(3e 4)
m 3(4 2y) + 2(5 2y)

h 3 (4 7e)
k 5(2 b) (b + 1)
n 8g 3(1 2g) + 5

i 5q 2(3 2q) + 5
l 4(3d e) 2(d + 3e)
o t(t + h) + h(t + h)

7 a The prot D, in dollars, is given by the expression 5(3d + 1) 2(2d 1). Simplify this
expression.
b The prot P, in dollars, for selling ice creams is 1.55(4n 1) + 0.85(n + 1), where n is the
number of ice creams sold.

i Simplify this expression.

ii If 200 ice creams are sold, what is the prot?
c The prot per TV set (in dollars) is given by 25(N + 250) + 45(N 150), where N is the
number of TV sets sold.
i Simplify this expression.
ii If N = 10, what is the prot?

Skillbank 2
SkillTest
2-01
Multiplying by
9, 99 or 199

SkillBuilder
7-057-17
Factors

Multiplying by 9, 99, 199,

When multiplying by 9, 99, 199, remember that:
9 = 10 1, 99 = 100 1, 199 = 200 1,
1 Examine the following examples:
a
37 9
b
= 37 (10 1)
= 37 10 37 1
= 370 37
= 333

99 85
= 85 (100 1)
= 85 100 85 1
= 8500 85
= 8415

12 199
= 12 (200 1)
= 12 200 12 1
= 2400 12
= 2388

2 Find answers for the following:

a 87 9
b
d 89 99
e
g 75 999
h
j 99 95
k

45 99
8 199
28 99
55 99

c
f
i
l

9 76
14 199
9 895
199 18

Factors
A factor is a number or algebraic expression that divides evenly into another whole number
or algebraic expression.
For example, 5 is a factor of 30 (because 30 5 = 6), and 4p is a factor of 20pw (because
20pw 4p = 5w).
The relationship between products and factors is shown below.
5 2 = 10, so we say that 5 and 2 are factors of 10.
1 10 = 10, so 1 and 10 are also factors of 10.
The factors of 10 are 1, 2, 5, 10.
5a ay = 5a2y, so 5a and ay are factors of 5a2y.
5y a2 = 5a2y, so 5y and a2 are also factors of 5a2y.
5a2 y = 5a2y, so 5a2 and y are also factors of 5a2y.
The factors of 5a2y are 1, 5a2y, 5, a2y, a, 5ay, 5a, ay, 5a2, y, 5y, a2.

52

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02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 53 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

Factorising algebraic expressions

When the expression 4(2y + 5) is expanded, the result is 8y + 20. Factorising is the reverse of
expanding.
Factorisation breaks an expression into factors. When 8y + 20 is factorised, the result is 4(2y + 5).
The factors are 4 and (2y + 5).
Expand
(remove brackets)
4(2y + 5)

8y + 20
Factorise
(insert brackets)

Common factors
A common factor is a number that is a factor of two or more numbers or algebraic expressions.
For example, 3k is a factor of both 15k2 and 30kh (because 15k2 3k = 5k, and 30kh 3k = 10h).
The rst step in factorising an algebraic expression is to determine the highest common factor
(HCF) of the terms in the expression.

Example 10

Skillsheet
2-03
HCF by
factor trees

Factorise each of the following:

a 5t + 10
b 24x2 16xy

Solution
a The HCF of 5t and 10 is 5.
5t + 10 = 5 t + 5 2
(rewriting the expression using the HCF)
= 5(t + 2)
b The HCF of 24x2 and 16xy is 8x.
24x2 16xy = 8x 3x 8x 2y
= 8x(3x 2y)

Example 11
Factorise each of the following:
b 5y2 25y
a 3m + 9

Solution

a 3 is the highest common factor of 3m and 9.

3m + 9 = 3 m + (3) (3)
= 3[m + (3)]
= 3(m 3)
b 5y is the highest common factor of 5y2 and 25y.
5y2 25y = 5y y (5y) (5)
= 5y[y (5)]
= 5y(y + 5)

Exercise 2-05
1 Factorise each of these fully:
a 9m + 12
b 3t + 6

Example 10

c 4w 12

d 6k 24
ALGE B R A

53

CHAPTER 2

02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 54 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

CAS
2-05
Factorising
expressions
Skillsheet
2-04
Factorising using
diagrams

Example 11

e 20c + 15
i 15 + 20p
m 18g + 27

f 9k 27
j 10 + 12t
n 16w 8

2 Factorise the following expressions:

a hk h
b wy + y
e ab + ac
f 4a + 12b
i 12y + 18x
j 2y + y2
m 12m2 10m
n a2 + ac

g 16 24w
k 24y 30
o 9v + 33

h 12e + 18
l 2q 22
p 28 21t

mn 3m
x2 + x
d 2 + 8d
5n2 20n

c
g
k
o

3 Factorise each of these completely:

a 16x2 12xy
b 8p2r + 6pr
d 14hk + 21ky
e 28wv 21v2
2
g 4mn 6mn
h 8rt 18r2
2
j 20wy + 18wy
k 15 30b2
2
m 9e + 12 + 6e
n 15hk 3h2 + 9h

d
h
l
p
c
f
i
l
o

6p + pr
5 5q
3e2 + 6e
7g + 9g2

4m2h2 4m
18abc + 24ab
9a2y + 15y2
8wxh + 4x2h
9ef 12e + 6f 2

4 Factorise each of the following:

a 4p 8
b 9k + 27
f 12m 16
e 6x + 4
i x2 7x
j 8w2 24h

c 3g + 6
g 20e 15
k ap + aq

d 18w + 12
h 18n 21
l 24xy 16x

5 Factorise each of these fully:

a d 2 + dh
b 2p2 20p

c 4y 16

d tr t

g 9 3w

k 9xy2 + 12xy

16k2t 2

1 2
--- x
4

+ 4kt

1--- xy
4

10ab + 20a

3
--- k
4

1--- kt
4

6 Factorise each of these completely:

a 8a + 12y + 4
b 20xy 10x2 + 5y
d 5(a + 6) + h(a +6)
e 7y(m + 2) p(m + 2)
g 10p2 10pq
h w(d + 3) + 4(d + 3)

1
--- p
2

+ 1--- q
2

24m2 + 6m

c t 2m + tm2 + tm
f c(a + b) d(a + b)
i 5a(x y) + 10ay(x y)

Adding and subtracting algebraic fractions

When adding or subtracting any fractions, the denominators must be the same. (Never add or
subtract the denominators.)

Example 12
Simplify each of the following:
a

r
--3

r
--3

3y
-----5

4y
-----5

p
--8

5
--8

Solution
r
--3

a
=

54

r
--3

3y
-----5

b
=

2r
----3
p
--8

5
--8

p5
-----------8

N E W C E N T U R Y M A T H S 9 : S T A G E S 5.2/ 5.3

4y
-----5

3m
------10

7y
-----5
7m
------10

4m
------10

2m
------5

7m
------10

3m
------10

02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 55 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

If the denominators are not the same when adding or subtracting fractions, then we must convert
them so that the fractions have a common (the same) denominator. A quick way of nding a
common denominator is to multiply the denominators of both fractions together.

Example 13
Simplify each of the following:
k
--3

k
--2

3h
-----4

2h
-----5

5m
------8

2m
------3

2m
------3

3 5m
----------------38

15m
---------24

2a
-----3

3
--4

2a
-----3

33
-----------34

9
-----12

9 + 8a
--------------12

3
--4

Solution
+

k
--3

a
=

2k
-----------23

2k
-----6

5k
-----6

k
--2

2h
-----5

5 3h
--------------54

15h
--------20

23h
--------20

3h
-----4

b
3k
-----------32

3k
-----6

5m
------8

c
4 2h
--------------45

8h
-----20

8 2m
----------------83

16m
---------24

------24

4 2a
--------------43

8a
-----12

Example 14
Simplify

4
--c

7
------ .
3c

Solution

7
-----3c

34
-----------3c

12
-----3c

5
-----3c

4
--c

7
-----3c

7
-----3c

Example 15
Simplify each of the following:
a 5a 4c + 3--- c
4

7a
-----2

m+3
------------5

m2
------------4

Solution
5a 4c + 3--- c

= 5a
=
=
=
=

7a
-----2
3
--- c
4

7a
------ 4c +
2
10a
7a
16c
3c
--------- ------ --------- + -----2
2
4
4
10a 7a
3c 16c
--------------------- + --------------------2
4
13 c
3a
------ + ----------2
4
3a
13c
------ --------2
4

b
=
=
=
=
=

m+3
m2
------------- ------------5
4
4 (m + 3)
5 (m 2)
--------------------------- --------------------------45
54
5(m 2)
4(m + 3)
---------------------- --------------------20
20
4(m + 3) 5(m 2)
------------------------------------------------20
4m + 12 5m + 10
---------------------------------------------20
22 m
---------------20

ALGE B R A

55

CHAPTER 2

02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 56 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

Exercise 2-06
Example 12

CAS
2-06
Adding and
subtracting
algebraic
fractions
Example 13

1 Simplify each of the following:

a
e
i
m

e
i
m

f
j
n

5k
3k
------ + -----8
8
5
2
------ -----3d
3d
10 y
7y
--------- -----3h
3h
5u
3u
------ -----8g
8g

c
g
k
o

7m
2m
------- ------10
10
4r
r
----- ---w
w
6
5
--- --a
a
1
4
------ -----9f
9f

d
h
l
p

x
2x
--- -----3
3
2
--- + 5--c
c
4
6
------------ + -----------e+1
e+1
7e
3e
------ -----8
8

x
x
--- + --3
4
w
w
---- + ---4
5
3c
c
------ --2
5
3
2a
--- + -----4
7

b
f
j
n

s
s
--- --3
7
5t
2t
----- + ----4
5
2d
r
------ --4
5
a
b
--- + --2
3

c
g
k
o

h
h
--- --5
3
2p
p
------ + --5
3
2a
3h
------ + -----3
5
7e
2e
------ -----8
3

5
2
------- ---4m
m
2
4
--- + -----5a
a
3
8
------ + -----5d
3d

h
l
p

m
m
---- ---7
2
5r
5r
----- ----2
3
5
4w
--- + ------6
5
3
4k
--- + -----5
3

3 Simplify each of the following:

a
e
i

Example 15

2 Simplify each of the following:

a

Example 14

w
2w
---- + ------4
4
4
5
--- + --q
q
4t
s
----- + --3
3
p
3
--- + --z
z

2
-----3p
4
------5m
a
------4m

+
+

5
--p
1
---m
b
---m

b
f
j

4
3
--- -----k
2k
8
5
--- -----x
3x
7
3
------ -----8y
2y

c
g
k

h
l

10
-----3y
k
-----4c
2a
-----w

7
--y
2
--c
c
------4w

4 Simplify:
a 5k
d
g
j
m
p
s

k
--3

+ 2m

b 3y 2m

m
---4

y+3
y1
------------ + ----------4
3
m+6
m+2
------------- ------------5
3
m1
m2
------------- + ------------4
3
1m
m2
------------- ------------5
7
8 3x
2x + 5
--------------- --------------2
3
x1
x2
x3
----------- + ----------- + ----------2
3
4

e
h
k
n
q
t

2y
-----5

m
---3
3h
4k
------ 2k + 5h -----4
5
5t
7e
----- + 8e 3t -----4
2
2k + 1
k1
--------------- ----------3
2
9 2k
k5
--------------- ----------3
2
x
x+2
2x
--- + ------------ + -----3
5
4
r1
r4
r2
----------- ----------- ----------2
5
3

c
f
i
l
o
r
u

x+2
x
--- + -----------3
5
x1
x2
----------- + ----------4
5
k+3
k1
------------ ----------10
7
3x 1
2x 9
--------------- --------------4
5
2m + 5
m1
----------------- ------------4
9
w+1
3w
w1
------------- + ------- ------------7
2
5
y+7
y
------------ --- + 2y
2
3

Multiplying and dividing algebraic

fractions
Remember:
when you are multiplying and dividing fractions, the denominators do not need to be the same
when multiplying fractions, cancel any common factors, then multiply numerators and
denominators
when dividing by a fraction a--- , multiply by its reciprocal b--- .
b

56

N E W C E N T U R Y M A T H S 9 : S T A G E S 5.2/ 5.3

02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 57 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

Example 16
Simplify each of the following:
3
--d

4
--c

4
--k

3k
-----16

4
--k

3k
----16

5
----2r

8r
-----11

Solution
3
--d

4
--c

34
-----------dc

4
--1k

12
-----cd

3
--4

3k
-----16

5
----2r

8r
-----11
4

8r
= ---5- ---2r
1

11

20
-----11

9
= 1 ----11

Example 17
Simplify each of the following:
3
--h

4
--k

xy
----5

3x
-----25

Solution
a
=
=

3
--h

4
--k

3
--h

k
--4

xy
----5

3x
-----25
5

xy 25
- ----= --1

3k
-----4h

3x
1

5y
-----3

Exercise 2-07
Example 16

1 Simplify each of the following products:

a

w
---3

1
--2

s
--5

t
--4

3
--h

5
-----6k

4
---m

1
--v

2
-----3v

2
--x

3
--x

a
--b

c
--d

5p
-----4

d
--e

e
--g

4
-----ak

2
--3

9u
-----10

u
--3

h
--8

q
--4

5m
------n

3e
-----7g

3a
-----5k

l
--3

5
--f

4ad
---------9

3
--u

3z
----r

2r
--------9dz

3
--4

3y
-----5

2y
-----d

2m
------3n

h
--k

e
--------14g

xh
-----5

3h
-----15

5s
----2

3s
----7

3
--n

8
--------15 p

CAS
2-07
Multiplying and
dividing
algebraic
fractions

d
--------16a

2 Simplify each of the following divisions:

r
--2

4t
----9

8w
------3x

r
--5

3t
----5
2w
------9x

m
---6

n
--3

h
--2

3
--e

5
--e

3
-----2a

-----
3s

t
--3

6s
-----11

b
-----6a

3t
-----5u

Example 17

k
--h

3 Simplify each of the following:

2

3p
-----2

p
----4

2w
------7

xy
----z

5
--y

a
--b

5w
------6

c
--b

c
b
-----3a

8y
-----5

g 5

3
----------2
32 y

3
-----5b

s
--3

4t
----9

ALGE B R A

57

CHAPTER 2

02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 58 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

Worksheet
2-08
Algebraic
fractions
puzzle

5mn
----------2d

5ty
-------k

4d
-----n

1
-------------15mn

5ky
--------t

5p

6
--r

7
-----------10 pt
15
-----yh

5r
----9

5
-----2g

6cf
--------q

2
--g

5
-----qf

10c
--------a

7
--h

1
-----3h

5hk 2
-----------3

14
15
-----hk

6h
-----k3

Power plus
1 For each of the following patterns, nd:
i the next three terms
ii the rule for the pattern
iii the value of the 20th term.
a 3, 5, 7, 9,
b 7, 3, 1, 5,

c 5, 8, 13, 20, 29,

2 The cost of several tennis racquets totals $27rq. If one racquet costs $9q, how many tennis
racquets were purchased?
3 Pencils cost m cents each and erasers costs n cents each. If 40 pencils and 50 erasers are
bought, nd:
a the total cost in cents
b the total cost in dollars.
4 Find the average score of a cricketer whose scores in six innings are 6r, 2r + 8, r 5, 2r, r 5
and 3r.
5 A rectangular garden has its longer sides each 5 m longer than its shorter sides.
a If one side length is k metres, write two expressions for the other side length.
b Write two different expressions for the gardens perimeter.
6 The area of a rectangle is 20ab square units.
10a

a If the length of the rectangle is 10a units, nd the width.

b Write the lengths and widths of four other rectangles that have
an area of 20ab square units.
7 Evaluate:
a a2 2b, when a = 4 and b = 5
c 5t 2, when t = 3
e

r
---------- ,
2t

when r = 3 and t = 7

g (p + q2)2, when p = 5 and q = 3

b (5t)2, when t = 3
d x2 4y2, when x =
f
h

p +q

4
-----------e+1

6
-----------e+1

5
-----3v

2
-----4v

r+3
----------4

2r
----5

8
--------------3x 3

1
--------------2x 2

4w
--------------------3(w + 1)

58

5
----------x1

N E W C E N T U R Y M A T H S 9 : S T A G E S 5.2/ 5.3

and y = 1

f 2 + 2h2, when f = 4 and h = 3

, when p = 5 and q = 12

8 Simplify:

1
--2

2
----------1x

2w
-----------------------27 ( w + 1 )

02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 59 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

Worksheet
2-09
Algebra
crossword

Language of maths
algebra
difference
factor
product
relationship

algebraic expression
evaluate
factorise
pronumeral
simplify

brackets
expand
like
quotient
substitute

consecutive
expressions
pattern
reciprocal
variable

1 Explain the difference between evaluating and simplifying.

2 What is a synonym? Write synonyms for the word like. How many of these can be
used in a mathematical sense?
3 Write the meaning of expand when used in the mathematical sense. Write two other
sentences using this word.
4 What does consecutive mean?
5 Which word from the list above means:
a the answer to a multiplication question?
b to replace a variable with a number in an algebraic expression?
6 Write a sentence that uses at least four of the above words.

Topic overview
Rate your understanding of and ability with the work in this chapter by copying and
completing the following scales. Draw an arrow on each scale to indicate your rating.
a Able to add and subtract like terms, and multiply and divide simple algebraic expressions.
Low
0

Worksheet
2-10
Algebra review

High
1

b Understand and use grouping symbols.

Low
0

High
1

c Able to substitute numbers into algebraic expressions or formulas.

Low
0

High
1

d Able to add and subtract algebraic fractions.

Low
0

High
1

e Able to multiply and divide algebraic fractions.

Low
0

High
1

ALGE B R A

59

CHAPTER 2

02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 60 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

Able to factorise algebraic expressions.

Low
0

High
1

Copy and complete this overview. If necessary, refer to the double-page opening of the chapter
and also to the Language of maths section for key words.
Patterns
, ,
3, 6, 9,
pattern rules
Grouping symbols
Four operations
2a + 3a
like terms
5a 3a
4k 2m
4a
4a 5 =
5

expand
2(x + 7)

4a=?
ALGEBRA

Substitution
2a, when a = 3
=23
=
5m2, when m = 2
= 5 22
=

60

2x + 14

factorise

N E W C E N T U R Y M A T H S 9 : S T A G E S 5.2/ 5.3

Algebraic fractions
a 2a
3
3
4k
k

3
2
a
b

3 2
a 1

b 2

Generalised
arithmetic
sum
increase
product
quotient
subtract

02_NC_Maths_9_Stages_5.2/5.3 Page 61 Friday, February 6, 2004 2:10 PM

Chapter 2

Review

1 Simplify each of the following:

a 9x + 7x 12x
b
d 7p + 2d 5p
e
g 2m + 3 + 5m + 7
h
j 2y2 + 3 4y2 y
k
2
2
m 3y 2y + 7y 4y
n

Topic test
Chapter 2
Ex 2-01

4km 7mk
4w 5 + 2w
5w + 7f 2w 3f
7 2p + 3 + 5p
4a2b + 5ab + 3a2b 2b

2 Simplify each of the following:

a 9 2y
b 6 5k
e 5w 3x
f 2xy 4y
i 20pq 5q
j 2y2 3y

3yk + 8ky
8x2 3x 5x2
12d + 5 7d + 4
6xy 5 4xy 2
5t 2 3k 7t 2 5k

c
f
i
l
o

Ex 2-02

c a 3d
g 36a 6
k 8cd 2 4cd

d 3 2r
h 15t 5t
l 15abc 20bcd

3 If a = 2 and b = 5, evaluate each of the following:

a ab
b b 3a2
c 4ab2
e (2b)2 a2

b 5a
--------------b

Ex 2-03

d a(a b)

2b 2 5a
--------------------2a

h b(1 b)

4 Expand each of the following:

a 5(3t 4)
b 7(1 + 3x)
d 3(1 2y)
e 4p(3p 1)
g (4 9w)
h (3 + 2n)

Ex 2-04

c 2(4 + 5k)
f 2m(4 3m)
i 5a(a 3t)

5 Expand and simplify each of the following:

a 4(2y + 1) + 3y
c 9g + 3(1 2g)
e 15 4(3v 5)
g 3(1 2y) + 4(4y + 1)
i 3(2d 5) 2(4 3d)
k 2a(a b) + 4b(a b)
m 3(5h 2) (7 2h)

b
d
f
h
j
l
n

6 Factorise each of the following:

a 2m 8
b x2y xy2
e 4w2 12w
f 5k + hk2

c 3g 27
g 8a 4

Ex 2-04

8 + 4(1 3p)
5(6m 1) 9
4(2q + 1) + 3(4q + 5)
7r(r + 1) 2r(1 3r)
3m2 + 2m(1 2m) + 5m
4e(4 3e) e(6e 1)
x(x + k) x(x k)
Ex 2-05

d 12x + 8 16a
h 5y 25ay

7 Simplify each of the following:

+

h
--6

4h
-----6

4k
-----3

3y + 1
--------------5

6g 2k

n 2h

k
--2

y4
----------2

3g
-----7

2h + 1
--------------3

Ex 2-06

11k
--------8

5
-----2d

8
-----------c+5

7k
-----8
4
--d

5
-----------------3c + 15

2k
-----3

h2
-----------5

7
---m

5
---m

x+3
-----------4

x+5
-----------2

k 2d

d
--3

+ 5m

c+3
-----------4

c1
----------5

2w + 3
---------------5

r
r
--- --4
5
ab
5a
------ -----6
2

w
---4

2w
------5

m1
------------3

m2
------------4

3m
------4

+c
w1
------------2

8 Simplify each of the following:

a
f

5
---m
a
--b

4--t
a
--b

b
g

h
--k
m
---5

3--k
5m
-------10d

Ex 2-07

c
h

14
9y
------ -----3y
2d
4
12
--- -----x
xp

ab
-----8

5
--v

5
-----------p2

2
--v

ALGE B R A

3p 6
--------------45

61

CHAPTER 2