%2B(6k%5E2%2B3k).jpeg "(-2k^3-7k^2+5k)+(6k^2+3k)")
Simplifying Polynomial Expressions
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the polynomial expression: (-2k^3 - 7k^2 + 5k) + (6k^2 + 3k)
Understanding the Process
To simplify this expression, we'll use the following steps:
- Identify like terms: Terms with the same variable and exponent are considered like terms. For example, -7k² and 6k² are like terms.
- Combine like terms: Add or subtract the coefficients of like terms.
Applying the Steps
Let's break down the expression and combine like terms:
- -2k³: There are no other terms with k³ in the expression, so this term remains unchanged.
- -7k² + 6k²: Combining the coefficients, we get -1k², which simplifies to -k².
- 5k + 3k: Combining the coefficients, we get 8k.
The Simplified Expression
Therefore, the simplified form of the expression (-2k³ - 7k² + 5k) + (6k² + 3k) is -2k³ - k² + 8k.
Key Takeaways
- Like terms: Remember to identify like terms before combining them.
- Coefficients: Combine the coefficients of like terms to simplify the expression.
- Order: While not necessary, it's common to write polynomials in descending order of exponents.