What is a constant term in algebra?

Decoding the Constant Term in Algebra (Like a Real Person Would Explain It)

Algebra can seem like a jungle of letters and symbols, right? But amidst all the x’s and y’s and exponents, there’s one thing you can always count on: the constant term. So, what is this “constant term” everyone keeps talking about, and why should you even care? Let’s break it down, shall we?

Basically, a constant term is just a plain old number hanging out in an algebraic expression. It’s the part that doesn’t have any variables attached to it. Think of it as the number that stands alone, completely independent and not influenced by any x, y, or z running around. Some people even call them “free terms,” which I think is a pretty good way to describe them.

Let’s look at some examples to make this crystal clear. Take this expression: