Simplifying the Expression: (5x^2 - 3) + (2x^2 - 3x^3)
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the algebraic expression (5x^2 - 3) + (2x^2 - 3x^3).
Understanding the Expression
The expression consists of two binomials:
- (5x^2 - 3)
- (2x^2 - 3x^3)
These binomials are being added together.
Simplifying the Expression
To simplify the expression, we'll combine like terms:
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Identify like terms:
- x^3 terms: -3x^3
- x^2 terms: 5x^2 and 2x^2
- Constant terms: -3
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Combine like terms:
- x^3 terms: -3x^3
- x^2 terms: 5x^2 + 2x^2 = 7x^2
- Constant terms: -3
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Write the simplified expression:
The simplified expression is -3x^3 + 7x^2 - 3.
Key Points
- Like terms have the same variable raised to the same power.
- When adding like terms, we only add the coefficients.
- The order of terms in a polynomial doesn't affect its value, but it's generally written in descending order of exponents.
By following these steps, we have successfully simplified the expression (5x^2 - 3) + (2x^2 - 3x^3).