Simplifying Algebraic Expressions: (3/5x - 2/3) + (2/5x + 1/3)
This article will guide you through simplifying the algebraic expression: (3/5x - 2/3) + (2/5x + 1/3).
Understanding the Basics
Before we start simplifying, let's review some key concepts:
- Like Terms: Terms with the same variable and exponent. For example, 3x and 2x are like terms, while 3x and 3x² are not.
- Combining Like Terms: We can add or subtract like terms by combining their coefficients. For example, 3x + 2x = 5x.
Simplifying the Expression
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Remove the Parentheses: Since we are adding the two expressions, the parentheses don't affect the order of operations. (3/5x - 2/3) + (2/5x + 1/3) = 3/5x - 2/3 + 2/5x + 1/3
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Identify Like Terms: We have two sets of like terms:
- x terms: 3/5x and 2/5x
- Constant terms: -2/3 and 1/3
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Combine Like Terms:
- x terms: (3/5x + 2/5x) = 5/5x = x
- Constant terms: (-2/3 + 1/3) = -1/3
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Write the Simplified Expression:
x - 1/3
Conclusion
The simplified form of the algebraic expression (3/5x - 2/3) + (2/5x + 1/3) is x - 1/3. Remember, to simplify expressions, you need to combine like terms by adding or subtracting their coefficients.