Simplifying the Expression: (5a^4 - 3a^2) - (3a^2 + 3a)
This article will guide you through simplifying the algebraic expression: (5a^4 - 3a^2) - (3a^2 + 3a).
Understanding the Problem
The expression involves combining like terms within parentheses and then simplifying the whole expression.
Step-by-Step Solution
-
Distribute the negative sign: Remember that subtracting an expression is the same as adding its opposite. So, we distribute the negative sign in front of the second set of parentheses: (5a^4 - 3a^2) + (-3a^2 - 3a)
-
Combine like terms: Identify terms with the same variable and exponent and combine their coefficients.
- a^4 terms: 5a^4
- a^2 terms: -3a^2 + (-3a^2) = -6a^2
- a terms: -3a
-
Write the simplified expression: Now, we combine all the terms: 5a^4 - 6a^2 - 3a
Conclusion
The simplified form of the expression (5a^4 - 3a^2) - (3a^2 + 3a) is 5a^4 - 6a^2 - 3a.