Simplifying Polynomial Expressions: A Step-by-Step Guide
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the polynomial expression: (2x^2 + 7x + 4) - (x^2 + 3x + 2).
Understanding the Concept
The given expression involves subtracting one polynomial from another. To simplify this, we will use the distributive property and combine like terms.
Steps to Simplify the Expression:
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Distribute the Negative Sign:
- Begin by distributing the negative sign in front of the second parenthesis.
- This means multiplying each term inside the second parenthesis by -1.
- The expression becomes: 2x^2 + 7x + 4 - x^2 - 3x - 2
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Combine Like Terms:
- Identify terms with the same variable and exponent (like terms).
- Combine the x^2 terms: 2x^2 - x^2 = x^2
- Combine the x terms: 7x - 3x = 4x
- Combine the constant terms: 4 - 2 = 2
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Write the Simplified Expression:
- Combine the simplified terms to get the final result.
- The simplified expression is: x^2 + 4x + 2
Conclusion
Therefore, the simplified form of the polynomial expression (2x^2 + 7x + 4) - (x^2 + 3x + 2) is x^2 + 4x + 2. This process demonstrates how to simplify polynomial expressions by using the distributive property and combining like terms.