Simplifying Polynomial Expressions
This article will guide you through simplifying the polynomial expression: (6x^3 - 4x^2 + x - 9) - (3x^2 + 7x + 3).
Understanding the Process
To simplify this expression, we need to follow these steps:
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Distribute the negative sign: The minus sign in front of the second set of parentheses means we multiply each term inside the second parentheses by -1.
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Combine like terms: After distributing, we identify and combine terms that have the same variable and exponent.
Step-by-Step Solution
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Distribute the negative sign: (6x^3 - 4x^2 + x - 9) + (-1)(3x^2 + 7x + 3) = 6x^3 - 4x^2 + x - 9 - 3x^2 - 7x - 3
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Combine like terms:
- x^3 terms: 6x^3
- x^2 terms: -4x^2 - 3x^2 = -7x^2
- x terms: x - 7x = -6x
- Constant terms: -9 - 3 = -12
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Write the simplified expression: 6x^3 - 7x^2 - 6x - 12
Conclusion
The simplified form of the polynomial expression (6x^3 - 4x^2 + x - 9) - (3x^2 + 7x + 3) is 6x^3 - 7x^2 - 6x - 12.