(5x^3+2x^2+3)-(3x^3+8x^2-x-1)

2 min read Jun 16, 2024
(5x^3+2x^2+3)-(3x^3+8x^2-x-1)

Simplifying Polynomial Expressions: A Step-by-Step Guide

This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the polynomial expression: (5x³ + 2x² + 3) - (3x³ + 8x² - x - 1). We will break down the steps involved in reaching the simplified form.

Understanding the Expression

The given expression involves two polynomial expressions:

  • (5x³ + 2x² + 3)
  • (3x³ + 8x² - x - 1)

These expressions are being subtracted from each other.

Simplifying the Expression

  1. Distribute the negative sign: Since we are subtracting the second polynomial, we need to distribute the negative sign to each term inside the parentheses. This changes the expression to:

    5x³ + 2x² + 3 - 3x³ - 8x² + x + 1

  2. Combine like terms: Now, we group together the terms with the same variable and exponent.

    • x³ terms: 5x³ - 3x³ = 2x³
    • x² terms: 2x² - 8x² = -6x²
    • x terms: + x
    • Constant terms: 3 + 1 = 4
  3. Write the simplified expression: After combining the like terms, our simplified expression is:

    2x³ - 6x² + x + 4

Final Thoughts

By following these simple steps, we have successfully simplified the given polynomial expression. The key takeaway is to understand the order of operations and to carefully combine like terms to achieve the simplest form.

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