Which term refers to a mathematical process such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, raising to a power, or finding the square root?

Which term refers to a mathematical process such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, raising to a power, or finding the square root?

• A. Function
• B. Expression
• C. Algorithm
• D. Operation

Answer: (D)

This question tests understanding of a basic action in math. The term that names a mathematical action performed on numbers or expressions is operation. Operations include adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing, raising to a power, and taking a square root—the exact actions you carry out to transform inputs into outputs. A function is a rule that assigns outputs to inputs, though it can involve performing operations. An expression is a combination of numbers, variables, and operations that represents a value but doesn’t itself perform any action. An algorithm is a step-by-step method for solving a problem, describing the procedure rather than the single action itself. So the listed items all describe actions you perform, which is why operation is the best fit.

This question tests understanding of a basic action in math. The term that names a mathematical action performed on numbers or expressions is operation. Operations include adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing, raising to a power, and taking a square root—the exact actions you carry out to transform inputs into outputs.

A function is a rule that assigns outputs to inputs, though it can involve performing operations. An expression is a combination of numbers, variables, and operations that represents a value but doesn’t itself perform any action. An algorithm is a step-by-step method for solving a problem, describing the procedure rather than the single action itself.

So the listed items all describe actions you perform, which is why operation is the best fit.