(4x^3-6x^2+x)+(2x^3-3x^2-7)

2 min read Jun 16, 2024
(4x^3-6x^2+x)+(2x^3-3x^2-7)

Simplifying Polynomials: A Step-by-Step Guide

In mathematics, polynomials are expressions consisting of variables and coefficients, combined using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and non-negative integer exponents. Simplifying polynomials involves combining like terms to express the polynomial in its simplest form.

Let's explore how to simplify the following polynomial expression:

(4x^3 - 6x^2 + x) + (2x^3 - 3x^2 - 7)

Step 1: Identify like terms

Like terms are terms that have the same variables raised to the same powers. In our expression, we have the following like terms:

  • x^3 terms: 4x^3 and 2x^3
  • x^2 terms: -6x^2 and -3x^2
  • x terms: x (only one term)
  • Constant terms: -7 (only one term)

Step 2: Combine like terms

To combine like terms, simply add or subtract their coefficients. Let's apply this to our expression:

  • x^3 terms: 4x^3 + 2x^3 = 6x^3
  • x^2 terms: -6x^2 - 3x^2 = -9x^2
  • x terms: x (remains unchanged)
  • Constant terms: -7 (remains unchanged)

Step 3: Write the simplified polynomial

Now that we have combined all the like terms, we can write the simplified expression:

(4x^3 - 6x^2 + x) + (2x^3 - 3x^2 - 7) = 6x^3 - 9x^2 + x - 7

Therefore, the simplified form of the given polynomial expression is 6x^3 - 9x^2 + x - 7.

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