Question

Are 8x²y and -5yx2 like terms? Explain.

Answer 1

These are not like terms.

Explanation:

Although their variables are the same, the exponents are different. LIke terms must have the same variables AND same exponents. The first term's variables are: x raised to the second power times y, while the other term's variables are: y times x times 2

2x ≠ x²

Answer 2

In algebra, like terms are terms that have the same variables and powers. ... Unlike terms are two or more terms that are not like terms, i.e. they do not have the same variables or powers. The order of the variables does not matter unless there is a power.