Simplifying the Expression (3x + 1/2) + (7x - 4 1/2)
This article will guide you through the steps of simplifying the algebraic expression (3x + 1/2) + (7x - 4 1/2).
Understanding the Expression
The expression consists of two binomials:
- (3x + 1/2): This binomial contains a term with the variable 'x' (3x) and a constant term (1/2).
- (7x - 4 1/2): This binomial also has a term with the variable 'x' (7x) and a constant term (-4 1/2).
Simplifying the Expression
To simplify the expression, we'll follow these steps:
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Remove the parentheses: Since we are adding the two binomials, the parentheses don't affect the order of operations. We can simply rewrite the expression as: 3x + 1/2 + 7x - 4 1/2
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Combine like terms: We group together terms with the same variable and constants. (3x + 7x) + (1/2 - 4 1/2)
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Simplify: Combine the coefficients of the 'x' terms and the constant terms. 10x - 4
The Simplified Expression
Therefore, the simplified form of the expression (3x + 1/2) + (7x - 4 1/2) is 10x - 4.