Simplifying Polynomial Expressions: (−3p3+5p2−2p)+(−p3−8p2−15p)
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the sum of two polynomial expressions: (−3p3+5p2−2p)+(−p3−8p2−15p).
Understanding the Basics
- Polynomial: A polynomial is an expression consisting of variables and coefficients, combined using addition, subtraction, and multiplication, with non-negative integer exponents.
- Like Terms: Like terms have the same variable and the same exponent. For example, 5p2 and -8p2 are like terms.
Combining Like Terms
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Identify like terms: In the expression, we have:
- p3 terms: -3p3 and -p3
- p2 terms: 5p2 and -8p2
- p terms: -2p and -15p
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Combine coefficients: Add the coefficients of like terms together.
- -3p3 + (-p3) = -4p3
- 5p2 + (-8p2) = -3p2
- -2p + (-15p) = -17p
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Write the simplified expression: Combine the results from step 2:
-4p3 - 3p2 - 17p
Conclusion
Therefore, the simplified sum of (−3p3+5p2−2p)+(−p3−8p2−15p) is -4p3 - 3p2 - 17p.