Algebraic Expressions • Topic 2 of 7

Constants

A constant is a fixed value that does not change — a plain number such as 7, −3 or 1/2. In an expression like 3x + 5, the 5 is the constant term because it has no variable attached. Constants stand in contrast to variables, whose values can vary. When you combine like terms, constants combine only with other constants. Recognising the constant term is useful for reading graphs (it is often the y-intercept) and for solving equations, where you isolate the variable by moving constants to the other side.

✅ Solved examples

1. Identify the constant term in 4x + 9.
The term with no variable is 9, so 9 is the constant.
2. Identify the constant in 7 − 2x.
The number without a variable is 7.
3. In 5x² + 3x − 8, what is the constant term?
The term with no variable is −8.
4. Is 6 a constant or a variable?
6 is a fixed number, so it is a constant.

✏️ Practice — try these, take hints as needed

1. Identify the constant term in 3x + 11.
Find the term with no variable.
It is the plain number.
11.
11.
2. Identify the constant in 10 − 4x.
The term without x.
It is 10.
—
10.
3. In 2x² − 5x + 7, what is the constant term?
Look for the term with no variable.
It is +7.
—
7.
4. In 9x − 3, what is the constant term?
The number with no variable.
Include its sign.
−3.
−3.
5. How many constant terms are in 2x + 3 + 5?
Constants are plain numbers.
3 and 5 are both constants.
Count them.
Two (3 and 5).

📝 Topic test — 8 questions

Auto-graded with full solutions; saved to your dashboard. Use the calculator and formula sheet (top-right) any time.

Loading questions…
← Variables Terms →