What types of terms can be combined in an algebraic expression?

The correct answer focuses on "like terms," which are essential in algebra for simplifying expressions. Like terms are defined as terms that share the same variable components, including the same variables raised to the same exponent. For example, in the expression 3x² and 5x², both terms contain the variable x raised to the power of 2, making them like terms that can be combined.

Combining like terms is a fundamental skill in algebra, allowing for simplification of expressions, which leads to clearer and more efficient problem-solving. This process involves adding or subtracting the coefficients of these like terms while keeping the common variable and its exponent unchanged.

Understanding why only like terms can be combined is vital for correctly manipulating and solving algebraic expressions. Other types of terms may have different variables or powers, and therefore, cannot be combined directly.