Simplifying Algebraic Expressions: (6a - 3a²) + (2a² - 3a)
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the algebraic expression (6a - 3a²) + (2a² - 3a).
Understanding the Concepts
Before we begin, let's refresh our understanding of a few key concepts:
- Terms: In an algebraic expression, terms are separated by addition or subtraction signs. For example, in our expression, we have four terms: 6a, -3a², 2a², and -3a.
- Like Terms: Like terms have the same variables raised to the same powers. For example, 6a and -3a are like terms because they both have the variable 'a' raised to the power of 1.
- Combining Like Terms: We can combine like terms by adding or subtracting their coefficients.
Simplifying the Expression
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Identify Like Terms: In our expression, we have two sets of like terms:
- -3a² and 2a²
- 6a and -3a
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Combine Like Terms:
- -3a² + 2a² = -a²
- 6a - 3a = 3a
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Write the Simplified Expression: Combining the simplified terms, we get: -a² + 3a
Conclusion
Therefore, the simplified form of the algebraic expression (6a - 3a²) + (2a² - 3a) is -a² + 3a. Remember, always combine like terms to simplify expressions and make them easier to work with.