Simplifying the Expression: (5x-2)-(4x+6)
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the algebraic expression: (5x-2)-(4x+6)
Understanding the Steps
Simplifying an expression means combining like terms to make it easier to understand and work with. We'll use the following steps:
- Distribute the negative sign: The minus sign in front of the parentheses means we multiply each term inside the second parentheses by -1.
- Combine like terms: Identify terms with the same variable and exponent and combine their coefficients.
Step-by-Step Solution
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Distribute the negative sign: (5x - 2) + (-1)(4x + 6) = 5x - 2 - 4x - 6
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Combine like terms: (5x - 4x) + (-2 - 6) = x - 8
Conclusion
Therefore, the simplified form of the expression (5x-2)-(4x+6) is x - 8.