Simplifying Algebraic Expressions: (4-5y)-2(3.5y-8)
This article will guide you through simplifying the algebraic expression (4-5y)-2(3.5y-8).
Step 1: Distribute the -2
The first step is to distribute the -2 across the terms within the parentheses:
(4-5y) -2(3.5y - 8) = 4 - 5y - 7y + 16
Step 2: Combine Like Terms
Next, we combine the terms with 'y' and the constant terms:
4 - 5y - 7y + 16 = **-12y + 20**
Final Simplified Expression
The simplified expression for (4-5y)-2(3.5y-8) is -12y + 20.
Key Points
- Distributive Property: When multiplying a number by a sum or difference inside parentheses, we distribute the multiplication to each term inside the parentheses.
- Combining Like Terms: Terms with the same variable and exponent can be combined.
This process of simplifying algebraic expressions is essential in solving equations, understanding relationships between variables, and performing other mathematical operations.