How do algebra tiles represent like terms and zero pairs? - Answers

Algebra tiles visually represent like terms by using tiles of the same size and shape to signify identical variables or constants; for instance, a tile representing (x) can be paired with other (x) tiles to demonstrate addition or subtraction of like terms. Zero pairs are illustrated by pairing a positive tile with a negative tile of the same size, effectively canceling each other out, which reinforces the concept that adding a value and its opposite results in zero. This visual representation helps students grasp the principles of combining like terms and simplifying expressions.