GED Math Practice Test

Which of the following is an example of a monomial?

1. 3x + 2y

2. 4x - 1

3. 5y

4. x² + y²

The correct answer is: 5y

A monomial is defined as a single term that consists of a coefficient and one or more variables raised to non-negative integer powers. Looking at the options provided, the correct choice is indeed represented by one term, which is "5y." This consists of the coefficient 5 multiplied by the variable y, perfectly fitting the definition of a monomial. The other examples contain either multiple terms or sums/differences of terms. For instance, the expression "3x + 2y" contains two terms combined by addition, disqualifying it from being a monomial. Similarly, "4x - 1" also includes two terms (4x and -1) combined through subtraction. Lastly, "x² + y²" is another expression with two distinct terms that are added, thereby not meeting the criteria for a monomial. Thus, "5y" stands alone as the correct example of a monomial.