(3a-4b)-2b

2 min read Jun 16, 2024
(3a-4b)-2b

Simplifying Expressions: (3a - 4b) - 2b

In mathematics, simplifying expressions is a fundamental skill. Let's break down how to simplify the expression (3a - 4b) - 2b.

Understanding the Problem

We have a combination of terms involving the variables 'a' and 'b'. Our goal is to combine like terms to write the expression in its simplest form.

The Steps

  1. Identify like terms: Like terms have the same variable(s) raised to the same power. In our expression, -4b and -2b are like terms.

  2. Combine like terms: Since we're subtracting, we combine the coefficients: -4b - 2b = -6b.

  3. Write the simplified expression: The simplified expression is 3a - 6b.

Key Points

  • Remember, we can only combine like terms.
  • Pay close attention to the signs (positive or negative) in front of the terms.
  • When combining, keep the variable and its exponent the same.

Example:

Let's say we have the values a = 2 and b = 3. We can substitute these values into our simplified expression:

3a - 6b = (3 * 2) - (6 * 3) = 6 - 18 = -12.

Therefore, when a = 2 and b = 3, the value of (3a - 4b) - 2b is -12.

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