Simplifying Expressions: (2x + 3y) + (4x + 9y)
This expression involves combining like terms, a fundamental concept in algebra. Let's break it down:
Understanding Like Terms
Like terms are terms that have the same variable(s) raised to the same power. In our expression:
- 2x and 4x are like terms (both have 'x' to the power of 1)
- 3y and 9y are like terms (both have 'y' to the power of 1)
Combining Like Terms
To simplify the expression, we combine the coefficients of the like terms:
- Combine the 'x' terms: 2x + 4x = 6x
- Combine the 'y' terms: 3y + 9y = 12y
The Simplified Expression
Therefore, the simplified expression is 6x + 12y.
Key Point: Remember that you can only add or subtract terms that have the same variable and exponent.