Final answer:
The term (X - M) in the GDP equation represents the difference between the dollar value of exports and imports, known as the net export component.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the GDP equation GDP = C + I + G + (X - M), the term (X - M) represents the difference between the dollar value of goods sent abroad and goods purchased from abroad. This component is known as the net export component of GDP, which can indicate either a trade surplus if exports (X) exceed imports (M), or a trade deficit if imports exceed exports. It is crucial to consider both exports and imports for an accurate assessment of a country's economic performance within a global context.