Simplifying Polynomial Expressions
In this article, we will explore the process of simplifying the polynomial expression:
(5x^4 - 2x^2) - (3x - 2x^2 - 4x^3 + 6x^4)
Understanding the Process
Simplifying a polynomial expression involves combining like terms. Like terms are terms that have the same variable and exponent. To combine like terms, we simply add or subtract their coefficients.
Step-by-Step Solution
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Distribute the negative sign:
The minus sign before the second set of parentheses means we multiply each term inside the parentheses by -1.
(5x^4 - 2x^2) + (-1 * 3x) + (-1 * -2x^2) + (-1 * -4x^3) + (-1 * 6x^4)
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Simplify:
(5x^4 - 2x^2) - 3x + 2x^2 + 4x^3 - 6x^4
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Combine like terms:
(-6x^4 + 5x^4) + 4x^3 + (-2x^2 + 2x^2) - 3x
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Simplify further:
-x^4 + 4x^3 - 3x
Final Result
Therefore, the simplified form of the polynomial expression (5x^4 - 2x^2) - (3x - 2x^2 - 4x^3 + 6x^4) is -x^4 + 4x^3 - 3x.