%2B(a%5E2-2a%2B12)%2B(4a%5E2-6a%2B8).jpeg "(5a^2-4)+(a^2-2a+12)+(4a^2-6a+8)")
Simplifying Algebraic Expressions: A Step-by-Step Guide
This article will guide you through simplifying the algebraic expression (5a² - 4) + (a² - 2a + 12) + (4a² - 6a + 8). We'll break down the process into easy-to-follow steps.
1. Identify Like Terms
Before we start combining terms, let's identify the like terms within the expression:
- a² terms: 5a², a², 4a²
- a terms: -2a, -6a
- Constant terms: -4, 12, 8
2. Combine Like Terms
Now, we'll add the coefficients of the like terms:
- a² terms: 5a² + a² + 4a² = 10a²
- a terms: -2a - 6a = -8a
- Constant terms: -4 + 12 + 8 = 16
3. Write the Simplified Expression
Finally, we combine the simplified terms to get the simplified expression:
10a² - 8a + 16
Conclusion
By following these steps, we have successfully simplified the algebraic expression (5a² - 4) + (a² - 2a + 12) + (4a² - 6a + 8) to 10a² - 8a + 16. Remember, the key to simplifying algebraic expressions is to identify and combine like terms.