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Coefficient

Definition

A coefficient is a numerical factor in front of variables in an algebraic expression or equation. It indicates how many times that variable appears or needs to be multiplied.

Analogy

Imagine you have bags filled with apples, and each bag has its own label indicating how many apples are inside. In this case, the coefficient would represent how many bags there are for each type of apple.

Related terms

Variable: A variable is an unknown value represented by letters or symbols in mathematical expressions or equations.

Constant term: A constant term refers to any fixed value in an algebraic expression that does not change.

Linear equation: A linear equation is an equation that represents a straight line when graphed and has variables raised to the power of 1.

"Coefficient" appears in:

Subjects (1)

Practice Questions (1)

  • What does it mean if a polar function has a coefficient inside the trig function?


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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.